Digging Deeper: Exploring the Value of Prison-Based Dog Handler Programs. (September 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: van Wormer, Jacqueline; Kigerl, Alex; Hamilton, Zachary
• Is Part Of: Prison journal. Volume 97:Number 4(2017)
• Page Start: 520
• Page End: 538
• Publication Date: 2017-09
• Subjects: prison -- prison-based animal programs -- intermediate outcomes -- propensity score matching; Prisons -- Periodicals; Prisons -- Périodiques; Electronic journals; 365.6
• DOI: 10.1177/0032885517712481
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0032-8855

Abstract

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.