Risk Factors That Predict Dropout from Corrections-Based Treatment for Drug Abuse

Early dropout or failure to engage in drug abuse treatment is a common problem in correctional settings. This study presents findings from 339 felony probationers mandated to a 6-month modified therapeutic community in lieu of imprisonment. Early dropout was related to cocaine dependence, having a history of psychiatric treatment, being unemployed before adjudication to treatment, and to higher levels of depression, anxiety, and hostility. Dropout rates also were higher for probationers with deviant peer networks and lower ratings of self-efficacy. However, multivariate analyses showed that scoring high on a criminality risk index was the strongest predictor of leaving treatment early and appears to represent a good composite risk measure. These findings can help identify who needs residential treatment, and who is at greatest risk for not completing it.