Recognizing the Need for Prisoner Input in Correctional Research Observations from an In-Prison Driving While Intoxicated Reduction Program Evaluation

• Published in: The Prison journal (Philadelphia, Pa.) Vol. 92; no. 2; pp. 274 - 289
• Main Authors: Miller, Holly Ventura, Tillyer, Rob, Miller, J. Mitchell
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Los Angeles, CA SAGE Publications 01.06.2012; SAGE PUBLICATIONS, INC
• Subjects: Alcoholism; Automobiles; Constraints; Correctional institutions; Data collection; Management; Methodology (Data Collection); Prisoners; Program Evaluation; Qualitative research; Substance Abuse; Substance abuse treatment; Treatment; program evaluation; correctional DWI treatment program; qualitative interviews
• ISSN: 0032-8855; 1552-7522
• DOI: 10.1177/0032885512439164

Although evaluation has become a common component of substance abuse treatment programs in correctional settings, few evaluation designs use a mixed-methodological approach and even fewer incorporate participant interviews in the data collection process. This oversight is problematic for a number of reasons, one of which is the uniquely disadvantaged position of the subjects under study (i.e., prisoners). Using data from an evaluation of an in-prison alcohol treatment program, this article illustrates the utility of the qualitative interview in correctional research. Findings suggest that interviews are capable of providing information otherwise inaccessible through quantitative designs and identifying process and management barriers to optimal program operation. Discussion centers on implications for policy and practice enhancement.