The article to be discussed here is “The Positive Effects of Cognitive-Behavioral Programs for Offenders: A Meta-Analysis of Factors Associated with Effective Treatment,” by Nana A. Landenberger & Mark W. Lipsey (2005).
The writers set out to prove that the meta-analysis of their own studies, and those of others, will better determine and measure the success of CBT. When identifying variables not necessarily addressed in other studies, and using meta-analysis for this purpose, the authors were better able discern what works and what doesn’t. They speculated that some variables in previous studies did not take into account certain factors because of smaller samples studied. Landenberger and Lipsey (2005) wrote, “ the moderator variables that describe the study characteristics associated with larger and smaller effects is another contribution meta-analysis can make to understanding the effectiveness of CBT ” (p.452).
They also theorized that when analyzing factors such as the effectiveness of some CBT programs compared to others, such as adequate training, and compliance of the offenders, the outcomes will show that CBT is indeed successful (Landenberger & Lipsey 2005).
The methods studied in the authors’ meta-analysis included intervention, participants, outcome measures, research methods, and sources. Because of the authors’ further research and analysis, one can conclude that CBT is effective in reducing recidivism among both adult and juvenile offenders. This is an important consideration when addressing the options faced by the criminal justice system when confronted with such issues.
References
Landenberger, N. A, and Lipsey M. W. (2005). The positive effects of cognitive-behavioral programs for offenders: A meta-analysis of factors associated with effective treatment. Journal of Experimental Criminology 1: 451–476. Retrieved from restorativejustice.pbworks.com/f/Landenberger_Lipsey.pdf)
