OPTIONS for Preparing Inmates for Community Reentry: An Employment Preparation Intervention Ψ. (October 2013)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Fitzgerald, Erica L.; Chronister, Krista M.; Forrest, Linda; Brown, Lindsey
• Is Part Of: Counseling psychologist. Volume 41:Number 7(2013)
• Page Start: 990
• Page End: 1010
• Publication Date: 2013-10
• Subjects: career intervention -- work -- inmates -- reentry -- recidivism -- ex-offenders; Counseling psychology -- Periodicals; 158.305
• DOI: 10.1177/0011000012462367
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0011-0000

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to adapt and experimentally test the effectiveness of a research-based, employment-focused group counseling intervention (OPTIONS). OPTIONS was designed to increase male inmates' exploration and identification of employment interests and options, identification and development of employment-search skills, and knowledge of vocational options, goal planning, and identification and use of contextual supports. A randomized block design and measurements at pretest, posttest, and 1-month follow-up were used to examine the effects of OPTIONS. Participants included 77 ( n = 38 treatment, n = 39 control) adult male inmates. Results indicated that OPTIONS participants had higher career search self-efficacy, problem solving, and hopefulness scores at posttest and follow-up than did treatment-as-usual control group participants.