NCJ Number
191719
Journal
Criminal Justice and Behavior Volume: 28 Issue: 5 Dated: October 2001 Pages: 564-587
Date Published
October 2001
Length
24 pages
Annotation
This article describes the design, development, and initial implementation of the Offense-Focused Problem-Solving Program.
Abstract
Offense-Based Problem Solving is a group-based offender treatment program, the objectives of which are to reduce offending through training participants in a series of social problem-solving and associated skills. The program focuses specifically on the application of problem-solving techniques to the analysis of crime events and the negotiation of potentially criminogenic situations. It is hypothesized that the subsequent application of these skills will enable offenders to manage their offense-related difficulties in a more positive manner. Training in problem-solving skills within the program is provided with a range of cognitive skills application exercises. Other program sessions involve self-management, social interaction training, and attitudes and values. The evaluation of the program entailed monitoring rates of commencement, attendance, and attrition; evaluating pretest to posttest change on a number of self-reported psychometric scales; and following up on recidivism rates of the program cohort. Results indicate that after participating in the program, recidivistic offenders placed on probation hold increasingly prosocial attitudes in relation to crime. Their anticipation of their own recidivism is reduced, whereas at the same time they show greater recognition of the effects of their crime on victims. In addition to attitudinal change, there is a reduction in beliefs in chance happenings, which may be tentatively suggested as evidence of a greater sense of responsibility for occurrences within their lives. Self-esteem has been seen to increase from preprogram to postprogram. Further research is in progress to evaluate what, if any, impact the program may have on actual recidivism rates of participating offenders. 4 figures, 4 tables, 54 references