NCJ Number
165122
Date Published
Unknown
Length
24 pages
Annotation
This study evaluated the efficacy of the Pre-Release Chemical Dependency (PRCD) and Treatment Alternatives to Street Crime (TASC) programs in Colorado.
Abstract
The study hypothesized that individuals who receive treatment will be less likely to return to prison and/or substance use. A total of 250 males under the jurisdiction of the Colorado Department of Corrections participated in the study. Subjects were assigned to one of four groups that received either PRCD, TASC services, both services, or neither. The Drug Abuse Screening Test was used to measure the severity of drug problems, and the Alcohol Dependence Scale measured the severity of alcohol dependence. A Risk Assessment Scale used actuarial predictors of recidivism found in the inmates' criminal history, prior adult or juvenile convictions, prior adult or juvenile incarcerations, felony convictions, employment history, seriousness of offense, number and seriousness of disciplinary actions, age at parole release, and parole violation history. The Millon Clinical Multiaxial Inventory (MCMI) is a personality inventory based on the diagnostic categories of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual. The evaluation hypothesis was not supported, since findings show that PRCD and TASC had no significant impact on recidivism or substance use. The authors suggest that methodological flaws inherent in the study may explain the results. 2 tables and 10 references