Outcome Studies of Therapeutic Community and Halfway House Treatment for Addicts

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Abstract
The outcomes of follow-up studies of addicts in therapeutic communities are reviewed. The research problems in such studies and the range of recovery rates found are assessed. Controlled studies are few in number and available only for correctional institutions, not for Daytop, Synanon or Phoenix House. Most studies base outcomes on "graduates" rather than all those taken into the program. Very few graduates of traditional communities exist. Most are employed in drug or social service activities. Few return to employment outside treatment agencies for addicts. Three controlled studies, all with half-way houses, suggest that they are not more effective than probation. Further controlled studies, especially with agencies such as Daytop and Synanon, are required.