Reducing recidivism using the Reasoning and Rehabilitation program: a pilot multi-site-controlled trial among prisoners in Switzerland

Alternative Therapies

August 2023

Full Citation

Baggio, S., Weber, M., Rossegger, A., Endrass, J., Heller, P., Schneeberger, A., Graf, M., & Liebrenz, M. (2020). Reducing recidivism using the Reasoning and Rehabilitation program: A pilot multi-site controlled trial among prisoners in Switerzland. International Journal of Public Health, 65(60, 801-810. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00038-020-01372-9

Abstract

Objectives: This study evaluated whether the Reasoning and Rehabilitation (R&R2) program was effective in reducing recidivism, minimizing dropout rates, and improving outcomes related to attitudes, behaviors, and personality among people living in detention.

Methods: Data were collected in eight Swiss German-speaking prisons among males detained for violent offenses using a quasi-experimental controlled design (R&R2: n = 129, treatment as usual [TAU]: n = 84). Measures included recidivism, dropout rate, and self-report questionnaires (hostile attribution bias, aggressiveness, interpersonal problems, and willingness to accept responsibility). Data were analyzed using mixed-effect models.

Results: Participants in the R&R2 group were less likely to reoffend in comparison with the TAU group in the intention-totreat (n = 51, odds ratio = 0.75, p = .060) and the per-protocol (excluding dropouts; n = 38, odds ratio = 0.65, p = .068) analyses. They also had lower self-reported scores of spontaneous and reactive aggressiveness (p = .047 and p = .070) and excitability (p = .086).

Conclusions: The findings of this pilot project were promising, with the R&R2 program leading to reduced recidivism and dropout rate. Even though these results should be considered preliminary, the R&R2 program appeared to be a relevant approach in reducing recidivism after prison.