NCJ Number
168902
Journal
Journal of Offender Rehabilitation Volume: 25 Issue: 1/2 Dated: 1997 Pages: 61-81
Date Published
1997
Length
21 pages
Annotation
This article reports on an evaluation that compared a new treatment approach with traditional social work for drug-abusing female offenders in Virginia.
Abstract
In the fall of 1994, 300 women were moved to a prison formerly used by males. In the original prison in Goochland, Va., a special therapeutic unit was established for 40 female inmates (felons) who self-identified as substance abusers. Traditional treatment modalities used were the standard clinical social work practice for individuals and groups, as well as Alcoholics Anonymous meetings. In addition to the traditional social work approach, a community volunteer therapist brought into the therapeutic unit a new approach that addressed body-mind control, brain hemispheric integration, energy balancing, and stress elimination. It is called Results/Kinesiology. A nonequivalent control group design and a time-series quasi-experimental design were used for the evaluation. Pre/posttest questionnaires of 130 items each were administered, testing for self-esteem, life satisfaction, use of alcohol, passive dependency, dysfunctional attitudes, and spousal abuse. In addition, monthly client progress reports were used to document change on 10 dimensions: anxiety, avoidance, denial, in touch with feelings, anger, openness, self-initiative, setting boundaries, responsibility, and peace/contentment. The therapist also kept detailed notes on the changes in their belief systems. The contrast "t" test showed significant change for anxiety, peace/contentment, and self-esteem. 3 tables and 17 references