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A brief Acceptance and Commitment Therapy-based intervention among violence-prone male inmates delivered by novice therapists

APA Citation

Eisenbeck, N., Scheitz, K., & Szekeres, B. (2016). A brief Acceptance and Commitment Therapy-based intervention among violence-prone male inmates delivered by novice therapists. Psychology, Society & Education, 8(3). 187-199.

Publication Topic
ACT: Empirical
Publication Type
Article
Language
English
Keyword(s)
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT); inmates; novice therapists; short intervention
Abstract

Acceptance and mindfulness-oriented cognitive and behavioral therapies, such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) are implemented in a wide range of different populations, but are not commonly used currently in correctional facilities. Objective: This study aimed to assess an intervention based on ACT in comparison with a treatment as usual condition (TAU) among inmates. Method: We compared 10 group sessions of ACT (n=9) with TAU (n=8) among male prisoners charged with violent crimes, administered by novice ACT therapists. Results: At post-intervention, ACT was more effective in enhancing values-consistent behaviors than TAU as measured by the Valued Living Questionnaire. Depression, anxiety and psychological flexibility did not change after any of the treatments. These results were maintained at three-month follow-up. Conclusions: A brief ACT intervention delivered by inexperienced ACT therapists can be effective in increasing values-behavior consistency among male inmates. ACT may be a viable and cost-effective intervention alternative in penitentiary contexts.

Comments
This was the first RCT on ACT in Hungary.
Access to the pdf: http://www.psye.org/articulos/Nikol.pdf