Full Answer Section

There are a number of reasons why community-based programs may be more effective than incarceration at reducing recidivism. First, community-based programs allow offenders to remain in their communities, which helps them to maintain their relationships with family and friends. This can be important for their long-term success, as it provides them with a support network that can help them to stay out of trouble.

Second, community-based programs often provide offenders with more opportunities for treatment and rehabilitation. This can include programs for substance abuse, mental health, and anger management. By addressing these issues, community-based programs can help offenders to address the underlying causes of their criminal behavior.

Third, community-based programs are often more cost-effective than incarceration. This is because they do not require the same level of security as prisons or jails. As a result, they can save taxpayers money.

One example of an evidence-based practice in community-based programming is the use of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). CBT is a type of therapy that helps offenders to identify and change the negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to their criminal behavior. CBT has been shown to be effective in reducing recidivism rates for a variety of offenders, including those with substance abuse problems, mental health issues, and anger management problems.

Another example of an evidence-based practice in community-based programming is the use of restorative justice. Restorative justice is a process that brings together offenders, victims, and community members to discuss the crime and its impact. This process can help offenders to take responsibility for their actions, make amends to their victims, and develop a plan for preventing future crime. Restorative justice has been shown to be effective in reducing recidivism rates for a variety of offenders, including juveniles and adults.

In conclusion, there is a growing body of evidence that suggests that community-based correctional/treatment programs are more effective than incarceration at reducing recidivism rates. Community-based programs allow offenders to remain in their communities, provide them with more opportunities for treatment and rehabilitation, and are often more cost-effective than incarceration. These programs can be a valuable tool for reducing crime and improving public safety.