DRUG ABUSE TREATMENT IN PRISONS: A THERAPEUTIC APPROACH

Abstract

It’s an acknowledged fact that the prison population in any country comprises that part of the
society which needs more reformation and correction. And this process of reformation becomes
more complicated and cumbersome if the prisoners or the offenders are addicted to some drugs.
These offenders are suffering from Drug dependence and abuse and very much resistant to
rehabilitation. Therefore the major challenge before the criminal justice system is to deal with
these drug abusers in prisons itself. The incarceration of persons who are found guilty of various
crimes and who are also chronic substance abusers presents an important opportunity for
treatment. It is a challenging task for the prison authorities and criminal administration because
drug abuse is that kind of addiction which cannot be treated by the offenders on their own. And
if they are not being treated while custody (both during incarceration and aftercare) there are
hundred percent chances of being continued with their drug use even after their release. This is
worse situation then. Considering all these threats and issues in light the present criminal
administration system have come up with cost effective drug abuse treatment methods and
correctional authorities. Now there are techniques and methods to treat these offenders while in
custody (both during incarceration and aftercare) and significantly alter their lifestyles.
The article is an attempt to study the overall scope of the problem and explores possible methods
and techniques for the drug abuse treatment in prisons and jails. The status of drug abuse
treatment is analyzed, and selected treatment approaches are highlighted. Recommendations are also suggested for treatment, research, evaluation, demonstrations, management information,
community linkage, training, and technical assistance.