Reducing recidivism using the Reasoning and Rehabilitation program: a pilot multi-site-controlled trial among prisoners in Switzerland

Stéphanie Baggio (), Michael Weber, Astrid Rossegger, Jerome Endrass, Patrick Heller, Andres Schneeberger, Marc Graf and Michael Liebrenz
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Stéphanie Baggio: Institute of Forensic Medicine, University of Bern
Michael Weber: Office of Corrections, Canton of Zurich
Astrid Rossegger: Office of Corrections, Canton of Zurich
Jerome Endrass: Office of Corrections, Canton of Zurich
Patrick Heller: Geneva University Hospitals and University of Geneva
Andres Schneeberger: Albert Einstein College of Medicine
Marc Graf: Forensic Psychiatric Hospital, Psychiatric Hospital of the University of Basel
Michael Liebrenz: Institute of Forensic Medicine, University of Bern

International Journal of Public Health, No 0, 10 pages

Abstract: Abstract Objectives This study evaluated whether the Reasoning and Rehabilitation (R&R2) program was effective in reducing recidivism, minimizing dropout rates, and improving outcomes related to attitudes, behaviors, and personality among people living in detention. Methods Data were collected in eight Swiss German-speaking prisons among males detained for violent offenses using a quasi-experimental controlled design (R&R2: n = 129, treatment as usual [TAU]: n = 84). Measures included recidivism, dropout rate, and self-report questionnaires (hostile attribution bias, aggressiveness, interpersonal problems, and willingness to accept responsibility). Data were analyzed using mixed-effect models. Results Participants in the R&R2 group were less likely to reoffend in comparison with the TAU group in the intention-to-treat (n = 51, odds ratio = 0.75, p = .060) and the per-protocol (excluding dropouts; n = 38, odds ratio = 0.65, p = .068) analyses. They also had lower self-reported scores of spontaneous and reactive aggressiveness (p = .047 and p = .070) and excitability (p = .086). Conclusions The findings of this pilot project were promising, with the R&R2 program leading to reduced recidivism and dropout rate. Even though these results should be considered preliminary, the R&R2 program appeared to be a relevant approach in reducing recidivism after prison.

Keywords: Intervention; Mental health; Psychotherapy; Reoffending (search for similar items in EconPapers)
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DOI: 10.1007/s00038-020-01372-9

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