Correctional interventions for women offenders: a rapid evidence assessment
Journal of Criminological Research, Policy and Practice
ISSN: 2056-3841
Article publication date: 21 September 2015
Abstract
Purpose
A Rapid Evidence Assessment (REA) determined the effectiveness of correctional programmes for women offenders and examined features of programmes providing the strongest outcomes. The paper aims to discuss these issues.
Design/methodology/approach
Electronic databases and web sites were reviewed to identify literature focused on interventions with female offenders published since 2006, the end point of the last REA conducted in the area. The following retention criteria were applied: participants were over age 18; sample included women and results are reported separately for women; study included an appropriate comparison group; study included recidivism as an outcome measure. Studies’ methodological design quality was assessed using the Maryland Scientific Methods Scale.
Findings
In total, one meta-analysis and 22 studies reflecting 17 unique samples, published from 2006 to December 2014, were identified. Overall, the best evidence suggests that the following programmes and approaches have an evidence base: first, substance abuse treatment, in particular in-custody or hierarchical therapeutic community programmes; second, gender-responsive programmes that emphasize existing strengths and competencies, as well as skills acquisition; and third, following in-custody programme treatment with participation in community follow-up sessions. There is also promising evidence for the use of community opioid maintenance among heroin addicted women.
Originality/value
This review demonstrated that since 2006 the number of high-quality research studies assessing women’s correctional outcomes has grown considerably. The results provide guidance to programme designers and administrators on programmes for women offenders likely to be effective in promoting public safety goals and offender reintegration.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
This research was completed under contract to the National Offender Management System in the Ministry of Justice. The views and opinions expressed in this paper are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the policies and perspectives of the Ministry of Justice.
Citation
Stewart, L. and Gobeil, R. (2015), "Correctional interventions for women offenders: a rapid evidence assessment", Journal of Criminological Research, Policy and Practice, Vol. 1 No. 3, pp. 116-130. https://doi.org/10.1108/JCRPP-04-2015-0007
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2015, Emerald Group Publishing Limited