A phenomenological approach to assessing a DUI/DWI program

How’d You Do It? Applying Structural Ritualization Theory to Drug Treatment Courts

A wealth of studies have been conducted on drug treatment courts (DTCs) over the past two decades. However, relatively few studies have employed qualitative research methods, and even fewer are grounded in social science theory. Using structural ritualization theory (SRT), this research provides a theoretical framework for understanding specifically how DTC programs effect change in the lives of participants and the influence of DTC organizational structure on this process using qualitative methods. Data for this study were collected from semi-structured interviews with 23 DTC graduates previously enrolled in either Kalamazoo or Van Buren County DTC, both of which are located in southwest Michigan. Findings reveal support for SRT as a useful approach identifying the mechanisms of change within the DTC program that contribute to participant success.

The Effect of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy on Driving While Intoxicated Recidivism

This longitudinal study examined differences in driving while intoxicated (DWI) recidivism among defendants with multiple DWI offenses after receiving a 16-week cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) program compared with those who received standard services. Defendants on probation supervision with histories of repeated DWI offenses ( N = 286; male = 240, female = 46) were referred to CBT. There was a significant difference in DWI recidivism 3 years after CBT among participants (11%) and the New York State (25%) and national (30%) rates; the comparison group reoffended at the rate of 25%. Level of Service Inventory–Revised (LSI-R) scores of the CBT group also decreased significantly compared with the comparison group, and CBT participants showed significant improvement in overall functioning measured by Global Assessment of Functioning (GAF). CBT offered in this innovative manner was more effective with recalcitrant, hard to treat, DWI offenders. It may also benefit precontemplative offenders by helping them recognize that their drinking is negatively impacting their lives and may warrant more traditional alcohol treatment.