Digging Deeper: Exploring the Value of Prison-Based Dog Handler Programs

As U.S. correctional systems continue to rollout evidence-based programs, the utility of “complimentary” programs that do not address recidivism reduction remains in question. Many U.S. prisons have a variety of prison-based animal programs, yet the outcomes are largely unexplored. This research add...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:The Prison journal (Philadelphia, Pa.) Pa.), 2017-09, Vol.97 (4), p.520-538
Main Authors: van Wormer, Jacqueline, Kigerl, Alex, Hamilton, Zachary
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Dogs
Prisoners
Prisons
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Summary:As U.S. correctional systems continue to rollout evidence-based programs, the utility of “complimentary” programs that do not address recidivism reduction remains in question. Many U.S. prisons have a variety of prison-based animal programs, yet the outcomes are largely unexplored. This research addresses a literature gap by evaluating the intermediate outcomes associated with a statewide prison-based dog handler program. Using propensity score matching, we compared 1,001 inmates in a pretest, postentry design, aimed at measuring change across four outcomes. Results indicate that dog handler program inmates experienced significant improvement in three of four areas. Implications and further research needs are explored.
ISSN:0032-8855
1552-7522
DOI:10.1177/0032885517712481