Evaluating a Prison-Based Drug Treatment Program in Taiwan

Abstract

Using data collected from prerelease and 12-month follow-up interviews with drug-using offenders, this article evaluates the efficacy of the first prison-based drug treatment program in Taiwan. A quasi-experimental design matching drug-abusing offenders into treatment and nontreatment groups was adopted. Program outcomes were measured in five domains: criminal recidivism, post-release drug use patterns, improved family and social relationships, problems adjusting to community life, and mental health after release. Logistic and OLS regression were employed to identify possible correlates of program outcomes. The results generally failed to confirm positive outcomes generated by the compulsory drug treatment program. Program participants reported higher rates of recidivism and post-release illicit drug use than nonprogram participants. Program participants also reported more problems adjusting to community life after release. Post-release living arrangements, friends or family members abusing illicit drugs, and problems adjusting to community life after release were also found to be significant correlates of recidivism and post-treatment drug use. Post-release employment status and mental health status were significantly related to post-treatment drug use, but not to recidivism. Since multiple factors lead to drug addiction, the article concludes that the structure and implementation of Taiwan's prison-based drug treatment program needs reform to effect positive behavioral change on drug-abusing offenders.