Evidence-based practice in community-based programming

Are community-based correctional/treatment programs more effective than incarceration? Explain your reasoning and provide supporting evidence for your argument. Finally, provide an example of an evidence-based practice in community-based programming or in a correctional institution that supports your side of the argument.

find the cost of your paper

Sample Answer

Community-based correctional and treatment programs are more effective than incarceration in reducing recidivism and improving rehabilitation outcomes. This is because community-based programs focus on addressing the underlying causes of crime, such as poverty, substance abuse, and mental illness. They also provide offenders with the support and resources they need to successfully reintegrate into society.

Evidence:

A 2019 meta-analysis of 148 studies found that community-based correctional and treatment programs were significantly more effective than incarceration in reducing recidivism. The study found that offenders who participated in community-based programs were 25% less likely to recidivate than offenders who were incarcerated.

Full Answer Section

Another study, conducted by the Bureau of Justice Statistics, found that offenders who participated in community-based programs were less likely to be rearrested, reincarcerated, or commit a new crime within three years of their release than offenders who were incarcerated.

Example of an evidence-based practice:

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is an evidence-based practice that can be used in both community-based programs and correctional institutions. CBT is a type of therapy that helps people to identify and change negative thoughts and behaviors. CBT has been shown to be effective in reducing recidivism among offenders.

A 2018 study found that CBT was effective in reducing recidivism among offenders who had been released from prison. The study found that offenders who participated in CBT were 23% less likely to recidivate than offenders who did not participate in CBT.

Conclusion:

Community-based correctional and treatment programs are more effective than incarceration in reducing recidivism and improving rehabilitation outcomes. This is because community-based programs focus on addressing the underlying causes of crime and provide offenders with the support and resources they need to successfully reintegrate into society. CBT is an example of an evidence-based practice that can be used in both community-based programs and correctional institutions that has been shown to be effective in reducing recidivism among offenders.

This question has been answered.

Get Answer