PROGRAMS FOR TREATING VIOLENT CRIMINALS - FROM COMMUNITY TO CORRECTIONAL SETTINGS

When all is said and done, treatment of domestic violence initiatives in correctional settings are very recent and they are, in large part, copied on programs that have been developed in the community. In this article, the authors compare the efficiency of treatment programs for violent men offered in the community with those provided in correction al settings. The results derive from an exhaustive review of scientifi c reports on the matter. The authors discuss the objectives of the pro grams, the principal treatment modalities used (theoretical models, fr equency and duration of treatment), the impact of these programs on th e clientele, i.e., attrition rates, recidivism rates, and success rate s. The results obtained in the community-based programs suggest that, while these treatments bring about some short-term positive results, t he long-term results leave room for continued improvement. The data on the programs being conducted in correctional settings are still to co me or are only in a very preliminary state. The authors conclude with a discussion of the relevance of these treatment programs and of the s takes involved in the provision of such programs.