Reducing recidivism using the Reasoning and Rehabilitation program: a pilot multi-site-controlled trial among prisoners in Switzerland

Objectives: This study evaluated whether the Reasoning and Rehabilitation (R&R2) program was effective in reducing recidivism, minimizing dropout rates, and improving outcomes related to attitudes, behaviors, and personality among people living in detention. Methods: Data were collected in eight Swiss German-speaking prisons among males detained for violent offenses using a quasi-experimental controlled design (R&R2: n= 129, treatment as usual [TAU]: n= 84). Measures included recidivism, dropout rate, and self-report questionnaires (hostile attribution bias, aggressiveness, interpersonal problems, and willingness to accept responsibility). Data were analyzed using mixed-effect models. Results: Participants in the R&R2 group were less likely to reoffend in comparison with the TAU group in the intention-to-treat (n= 51, odds ratio = 0.75, p= .060) and the per-protocol (excluding dropouts; n= 38, odds ratio = 0.65, p= .068) analyses. They also had lower self-reported scores of spontaneous and reactive aggressiveness (p= .047 and p= .070) and excitability (p= .086). Conclusions: The findings of this pilot project were promising, with the R&R2 program leading to reduced recidivism and dropout rate. Even though these results should be considered preliminary, the R&R2 program appeared to be a relevant approach in reducing recidivism after prison.