Obtaining statistics on the effectiveness of inmate rehabilitation programs is very difficult, and always controversial. However, here is one Internet posting that spans a 20 year study which is worth considering. Note especially the stress on teaching “decision making skills,” which is the main mission of Thresholds.
The research involves “Cognitive Behavioral Treatment” or an attempt to rearrange the thinking patterns of criminal offenders in prison or upon release and yes, there really are a lot of people caught up in the criminal justice system who need to be taught basic decision making stills.
Results:
- Without treatment 94 percent of offenders were rearrested
- With treatment 81 percent of offenders were rearrested
- Without treatment 82 percent returned to prison
- With treatment 61 percent returned to prison