Evaluation of a relapse-prevention program for methamphetamine-dependent inmates using a self-teaching workbook and group therapy

Aim The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of a relapse-prevention program for methamphetamine (MAP)-dependent inmates in a prison. Methods Participants were 251 male inmates with MAP-abuse problems. We compared scores on the Self-efficacy Scale for Drug Dependence (SSDD) and the Stages of Change Readiness and Treatment Eagerness Scale (SOCRATES) before and after intervention with a self-teaching workbook and group therapy. Results For all participants, only SSDD scores increased during the pre-intervention period. SOCRATES-8D scores increased after the start of the intervention using the self-teaching workbook, and both SSDD and SOCRATES-8D scores increased when group therapy was implemented. Changes in scores in participants with moderate and high MAP dependence were considerably different from the scores of those with low dependence during the pre-intervention and the self-teaching workbook periods. Conclusion Intervention using a self-teaching workbook and group therapy in prisons might be effective for inmates with more than moderate severity of MAP abuse.