An exploration of treatment providers experiences of delivering a high intensity intervention, with violent offenders
Journal of Criminological Research, Policy and Practice
ISSN: 2056-3841
Article publication date: 27 July 2022
Issue publication date: 25 October 2022
Abstract
Purpose
Whilst a great deal of research exists on the effectiveness of treatment with violent offenders comparatively little is known about the experience of treatment providers. The purpose of this paper is to explore the experiences of four prison officers delivering a high-intensity intervention, with violent offenders.
Design/methodology/approach
A qualitative approach was used to gain a rich, individualised account of treatment providers’ experiences, with interpretative phenomenological analysis applied by the lead researcher (first author). External auditing analysis was conducted by the second author.
Findings
The analysis generated two superordinate themes: “Impact on Self-Coping” and “With Great Challenge Comes Great Reward” with pertinent sub-themes. The findings support the existing evidence regarding the relevance of individual characteristics and coping style on well-being, regardless of the nature of the offences being discussed. Working with violent offenders could be challenging yet rewarding with adequate support in place.
Practical implications
It is imperative that treatment providers are offered support and encouragement in undertaking their role and that a rehabilitative culture is promoted and reinforced within custodial environments. Additional training for facilitators to develop effective self-coping strategies was recommended in addition to careful management of delivery periods.
Originality/value
These findings add to the evidence base in relation to the impact of high-intensity treatment provision on individual well-being; suggestions are made to support clinical and organisational good practice.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
The authors are grateful for the assistance of the SCP facilitators who kindly agreed to participate in the research, and the support of Kirsty Bremner, SCP Clinical Lead, and Clare Robinson, first authors Clinical Supervisor.
Citation
Connell, R. and Johnson, D. (2022), "An exploration of treatment providers experiences of delivering a high intensity intervention, with violent offenders", Journal of Criminological Research, Policy and Practice, Vol. 8 No. 4, pp. 260-271. https://doi.org/10.1108/JCRPP-04-2022-0017
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
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