NCJ Number
229850
Journal
Corrections Today Volume: 71 Issue: 5 Dated: October 2009 Pages: 68-72
Date Published
October 2009
Length
5 pages
Annotation
This article describes the treatment model and preliminary evaluation results for the Women's Recovery Center in Minnesota, which offers an integrated, gender-specific treatment program for victims of prostitution and trafficking.
Abstract
For the 126 clients in residential treatment for 11 days or more, 20 percent received a new conviction of any kind after at least 1 year in the community posttreatment; and 11 percent received a new conviction for drugs or prostitution. These results are particularly striking given the self-reported information by the 126 women prior to treatment. Ninety-two percent reported prior convictions; 84 percent reported prior incarcerations; and 98 percent reported having been addicted to drugs. The women had participated in a median of four (presumably unsuccessful) prior treatment programs. The treatment model of the Women's Recovery Center integrates three gender-specific components that focus on chemical dependency treatment, mental health treatment with an emphasis on sexual trauma, and a cognitive/teaching program of expanded life choices. Regarding client characteristics, most were Black or White, with minor representation of women of Asian, Native-American, and Hispanic heritage. Seventy-six percent had no permanent housing; 36 percent reported rarely or never having money for basic necessities; 59 percent reported being or having been addicted to alcohol, 98 percent reported being or having been addicted to drugs; and 67 percent reported having received professional help for mental health problems. Among the 103 clients stating an age at first involvement in prostitution, the average age was 20.3 years old. 2 tables and 8 notes