Forgiveness therapy in a maximum-security correctional institution: A randomized clinical trial

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Criminology
• Rehabilitation

Background:

• Correctional institutions house individuals with significant psychological distress.
• Past experiences of abuse and unjust treatment are prevalent among incarcerated populations.
• Psychological compromises such as anger, anxiety, and depression require effective therapeutic interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of Forgiveness Therapy as a novel rehabilitation approach.
• To alleviate psychological distress in men within a maximum-security correctional setting.
• To promote psychological well-being and healing through therapeutic intervention.

Main Methods:

• A two-tiered study involving 103 male participants in a correctional institution.
• Initial assessment measured abuse history, anger, anxiety, depression, hope, and forgiveness.
• A cross-over design with 24 weeks of Forgiveness Therapy for experimental and control groups.

Main Results:

• 90% of participants reported significant childhood or adolescent abuse.
• Forgiveness showed an inverse relationship with anger, anxiety, and depression.
• Forgiveness Therapy significantly reduced anger, anxiety, and depression, while increasing forgiveness and empathy.

Conclusions:

• Forgiveness Therapy is an effective intervention for correctional rehabilitation.
• The therapy successfully heals clinical psychological compromise in incarcerated men.
• Positive psychological well-being is promoted through Forgiveness Therapy in maximum-security facilities.