Outcome research with high-risk inmates

Group/Peer Support

April 2021

Full Citation

Jackson, J., & Cox, E. L. (2003). Outcome research with high-risk inmates. the Behavior Therapist, 26(1), 215-216. Retrieved from http://ovidsp.ovid.com/ovidweb.cgi?T=JS&PAGE=reference&D=psyc4&NEWS=N&A…

Abstract

Presents pilot findings from a suicide prevention program employing a psychoeducational approach in which treatment is administered in a group format. The goal of the program was to train inmates in coping skills that can be used to deal with stressful situations. After inmates completed the initial program they were assigned to a long-term therapeutic group that was designed to provide inmates with a support system to help them cope with suicide-related thoughts, feelings, and impulses. Coping skills learned in the first groups were then reinforced and served as the basis for the support system. Participants were 18 high risk inmates (aged 19-53 yrs) from 2 prison settings who completed the treatment in groups ranging from 6-14 inmates. The Reasons for Living Inventory was used to measure changes in attitude. Results for inmates participating at one of the prisons show significant pre- to posttreatment differences. Difficulties of developing empirical support for treatments conducted within this setting as well as implications for future research are discussed. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)