Date of Conferral

2021

Degree

Ph.D.

School

Criminal Justice

Advisor

Richard Worch

Abstract

AbstractThe CBT Program “Thinking for a Change” and its Impact on Offenders By James Wesson

Forensic Psychology MS, Walden University, 2014Criminal Behavior MS, Tiffin University, 2012 Criminal Justice Administration BS, Tiffin University, 2011

Dissertation Submitted in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree of Doctor of Philosophy General Studies –Criminal Justice with a specialization in Law and Public Policy

Walden University May 2021

Abstract One of the major problems that the United States criminal justice system faces regarding corrections is an exceedingly high rate of recidivism. The state of Ohio has been highly proactive in trying to address this issue with its Thinking for a Change program. This dissertation seeks to analyze the effectiveness of this program in terms of reducing recidivism. The central research question that this dissertation asks is how effective the program has been in helping offenders to become more aware of their thoughts, and in reducing their outward criminal behaviors. The study utilized a qualitative narrative design. The method of analysis was that of a largely phenomenological-narrative analysis approach to extrapolate key conclusions related to the Thinking for a Change program in the lives of the participants following their respective periods of incarceration. The theoretical construct used to underpin this study is the Self-Efficacy Theory by Bandura, which is a direct extension of his earlier Social Learning Theory. The data collection process was conducted through personal interviews with thirty former offenders from a Midwest community based correctional facility. The findings were that offenders can be taught to address their personal issues and outward actions with the use of such behavioral modification programs. The implications for positive social change are that offenders have a means by which they can rebuild their lives, and the larger community is protected from further criminal activity.   The CBT Program “Thinking for a Change” and its Impact on Offenders By James Wesson

Forensic Psychology MS, [Walden University], 2014Criminal Behavior MS, [Tiffin University], 2012 Criminal Justice Administration BS, [Tiffin University], 2011

Dissertation Submitted in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree of Doctor of Philosophy General Studies –Criminal Justice with a specialization in Law and Public Policy

Walden University May, 2021 Dedication The greatest woman that I have known throughout my life and the woman who has taught me so much, my grandmother, Sue Baker. I cannot begin to say thank you enough for all your guidance and wisdom that you placed upon me in my life. This dedication is too you because of what you instilled within me. I love you with all my heart and I miss you dearly. Rest in Peace Grandma!! Acknowledgments I would like to thank my family as they have truly been by my side during this entire academic process and this dissertation research project. Their patience has been truly appreciated. In addition, I always wanted to please my family and I was not going to let you guys down. Furthermore, Michelle, thank you so much for everything, I cannot express how much I love you and how much you have influence me throughout our relationship. I appreciate you more than you will ever know.

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