Abstract
With the “get-tough” stance of the past three decades shaping the landscape of U.S. penal policy, the rate of female incarceration has increased at a rate higher than that for males since the early 1980s (Pollock, 2002). At the turn of the 21st century, 60% of women admitted to prison, compared to 41% of male offenders, were incarcerated for drug-related offenses (Chesney-Lind, 2002; Pollock, 2002). Given this, an understanding of what causes females to relapse and/or recidivate is critical in the development and implementation of appropriate correctional substance abuse treatment. Interest in the efficacy of correctional substance abuse treatment programming has resurfaced after a period of years in which the doctrine of “nothing works” in offender rehabilitation was accepted. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the efficacy of substance abuse treatment programs operative for female inmates in the state of Florida released between 1995-2001. Consistent with previous research, the analyses produced mixed findings. Specifically, while institutionally-based programming did not reduce recidivism, community based programming was effective three years post-release from programming. Further evaluation (both process and outcome studies) and investment in treatment resources that can address the specific needs of females and provide a continuum of care are provided as recommendations for future research and practice.
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