Recidivism and Cognitive Behavioral Therapies

Recidivism of criminal offenders has become a national problem in the United States. New criminal activity along with technical violations of conditions of probation or parole are the results of deficiencies in cognitive behaviorisms. Numerous studies have revealed that weaknesses in cognitive behavior are a common denominator among offenders. These studies have led to the development and implementation of treatment strategies that, when administered to criminal offenders, have proven to be effective in reducing recidivism. Therapeutic programs grounded in evidence-based practices are widely used throughout correctional facilities and probation-parole departments. However, this evidence-based approach in reducing recidivism is moot if correctional leadership is not supportive of rehabilitative programs for offenders. The efficacy and success of these programs are dependent on effective leadership along with professionals and paraprofessionals that are specifically credentialed or licensed and have the qualities and skillsets to provide these types of rehabilitative measures.