ePrints

An exploration of treatment providers experiences of delivering a high intensity intervention, with violent offenders

Lookup NU author(s): Dr Darren JohnsonORCiD

Downloads

Full text for this publication is not currently held within this repository. Alternative links are provided below where available.

Abstract

© 2022, Emerald Publishing Limited. 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.

Publication metadata

Author(s): Connell R, Johnson D

Publication type: Article

Publication status: Published

Journal: Journal of Criminological Research, Policy and Practice

Year: 2022

Volume: 8

Issue: 4

Pages: 260-271

Online publication date: 27/07/2022

Acceptance date: 02/04/2018

ISSN (print): 2056-3841

ISSN (electronic): 2056-385X

Publisher: Emerald Publishing Limited

URL: https://doi.org/10.1108/JCRPP-04-2022-0017

DOI: 10.1108/JCRPP-04-2022-0017

Altmetrics

Share