CBT (cog theories)

    Cards (8)

    • Cognitive theories

      Our cognitions (thought processes) shape our behaviour, including offending behaviour
    • Cognitive theories
      • Offenders have 'distorted cognitions that lead them to offend
      • CBT programmes aim to change offenders' thoughts and attitudes so as to change their behaviour
    • Think First
      1. Group and one-to-one sessions for repeat offenders on probation
      2. Teaches problem-solving skills
      3. Consequential thinking
      4. Decision making
      5. Perspective taking
      6. Social interaction and moral reasoning training
    • Completing Think First
      30% less likely to be re-convicted than offenders who receive an alternative community sentence
    • The non-completion rate for Think First is often high
    • Aggression Replacement Training (ART)
      1. Interpersonal skills training through role play
      2. Anger control techniques, dealing with emotions and providing offenders with alternative courses of action instead of violence
      3. Moral reasoning training that challenges their attitudes by confronting them with moral dilemmas to consider
    • Evaluations of ART
      Mostly show lower re-conviction rates, but some found that although thinking skills improved, behaviour did not
    • 'What works' policy
      • Ensures CBT programmes actually reduce offending and only accredits ones that meet certain criteria
      • Clear plan and proven methods for altering offenders' behaviour
      • Careful matching of offenders to the right programme
      • Targeting the risk factors that lead to offending
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