NCJ Number
145598
Journal
Journal of Alcohol and Drug Education Volume: 39 Issue: 1 Dated: (Fall 1993) Pages: 34-55
Date Published
1993
Length
22 pages
Annotation
A successful program called IMPACT has been developed and implemented for repeat offenders convicted of driving under the influence of alcohol or other drugs in Alberta, Canada.
Abstract
All persons convicted of two or more impaired driving charges within a 5-year period must attend the IMPACT program as a condition of license reinstatement. Based on an intervention approach, the program provides an intensive, residential weekend experience in which participants examine their behaviors related to alcohol and other drugs. Through extensive interaction with peers who share common problems, participants acknowledge the consequences of their alcohol or other drug abuse and develop strategies and plans to make necessary changes in their lives. The combination of IMPACT's theoretical and philosophical basis, together with a number of unique program features and an efficient delivery system, have contributed to the program's success with repeat impaired drivers, as revealed in a recidivism study comparing IMPACT participants with others. The possibility of extending this intervention approach to other client groups remains to be explored. However, it appears that the IMPACT approach could prove effective with other individuals who are experiencing alcohol- or drug-related problems in their lives. 9 references