Coordination of institution and parole services: an innovation within California's Civil Addict Program

Parole outcome was measured 1 year after release of 397 narcotic addicts processed by an experimental program in which both institution and parole services were administered together. Conparison of outcome of this group to the outcome of 361 traditionally processed addicts revealed a positive effect on parole outcome of violators (those with prior parole experience) compared to new commitments (p less than .05). This was particularly true for the community parole unit which made most use of community resources (p less than .05). Community adjustment of some narcotic addicts may be increased by administrative interdependence and by optimal use of other community resources. The future for such programs seems brightest at the local level of government.