NCJ Number
176459
Journal
Federal Probation Volume: 62 Issue: 2 Dated: December 1998 Pages: 52-64
Date Published
1998
Length
13 pages
Annotation
The use of anger management programs in corrections is discussed in terms of its historical background; programs in correctional settings in Madison, Wisc.; the risks of inappropriate treatment; and evaluation issues and findings.
Abstract
The court was based on the model of Dade County (Fla.) and diverted first-time, drug-possession offenders into a 12-month community treatment program that includes acupuncture and the development of social and educational skills. The drug court judge helped supervise the offender's treatment program. Participation in the drug court was voluntary and was limited to persons at least 18 years of age who met the criteria set by the prosecutor. The program's three phases were detoxification, stabilization, and aftercare. The present research compared 237 persons in the drug court program with 76 persons who were screened for the program but chose not to enter it. Results revealed that the program had positive impacts, especially concerning reconviction rates. Completion of the treatment program was a definite indicator of success. However, some questions remain. These include an explanation of why black participants were more likely than others to complete the program, why daily marijuana users had a particular problem with recidivism, and the factors related to success in TASC programs. Tables, notes, and 15 references