A Meta-Analytic Review of the Effectiveness of Corrections-Based Treatments for Drug Abuse

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Abstract
The Correctional Drug Abuse Treatment Effectiveness project obtained and coded evaluation research studies (unpublished as well as published) of treatment/intervention programs reported from 1968 to 1996. Meta-analysis was used to examine evidence for their effectiveness in reducing recidivism for incarcerated offenders who are drug abusers. Results supported the effectiveness of therapeutic community programs but not of boot camps and drug-focused group counseling. Evaluations of other interventions were based on too few studies to draw strong conclusions, but promising treatments that warrant further attention include use of methadone maintenance treatment, substance abuse education, 12-step programs, and cognitive behavioral therapy for offender populations.