Psychotherapy with depressed incarcerated felons: a comparative evaluation of treatments

Depressive syndromes are prevalent among prison inmates. By design, penal institutions attempt to punish, deter, and isolate criminals. The present study represents a beginning step in evaluating treatment interventions which may alleviate depression among incarcerated felons. 10 inmates at a large maximum-security prison were randomly assigned to group cognitive therapy or individual supportive treatment plus brief counseling contacts. Analysis indicated statistical and clinical significance on measures of depressive symptomatology for treatment conditions across the periods of assessment. The findings support the utility of depression-treatment programs for prisoners. Moreover, the treatment modalities are presented along a variety of dimensions which may be useful when considering such interventions at facilities where psychological services are limited.