| Alternative-to-incarceration (ATI) programs are treatment-oriented programs designed to be alternatives to jail and prison. Retention and program completion are two of the biggest indicators of success for ATIs. This paper investigates correlates of retention and program completion in ATIs. As part of an ongoing evaluation of ATIs, funded by the City of New York, analyses will be performed using a subsample of 195 ATI participants. Interviews with participants were conducted after admission to ATIs to gather information on background and self-reported criminal history. A second interview, conducted three months after admission, gathered information about services received, and circumstances and needs while in the program. Case file reviews, conducted after participants exit, yield information on completion status, and number of days participants attended ATIs. The relationship between self-reported criminal history and retention in ATIs will be explored. Correlates include prior criminal acts, convictions and time incarcerated. Circumstances and needs, and effects on retention and program completion will be examined. These factors include past and current rug use, mental health, perceptions of circumstances and program environment, and motivation and readiness to receive treatment. Identifying factors associated with retention in ATIs may help identify those at risk for failure, and may help programs orient services to address the needs of those participants in order to increase retention rates. |
Updated 05/20/2006