Treatment and the Role of Classification: A Review of Basics

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Abstract
This article reviews the nature of treatment and its socially centered as well as offender-centered goals, and focuses on “positive treatment programs” (PTPs) as distinguished from “drastic rehabilitation approaches.” The effectiveness of PTPs in reducing illegal behavior (treatment's socially centered—and primary—goal) is discussed, and major factors underlying the “nothing works” versus “something works” controversy are outlined. Current areas of disagreement and agreement between treatment skeptics and treatment proponents are then summarized. The rationale, assumptions, goals, and major approaches to classification for treatment purposes are reviewed, as are its main advantages and current limitations. Finally, several false assumptions, stereotypes, and misunderstandings regarding treatment and its future possibilities are noted, as are its undeniable limitations as well as unique potentials.

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