William Arbour, University of Toronto - Can Recidivism Be Prevented From Behind Bars?

Title: Can Recidivism Be Prevented From Behind Bars? Evidence From a Behavioral Program

Abstract:  I study the effects of a cognitive-behavioral intervention on incarcerated offenders in Canadian prisons using novel micro data. To address inmates' self-selection into the program, I exploit the inmates' random assignment to evaluators with varying propensities to recommend the program. I find large and significant reductions in recidivism: within six months upon release, the program reduces recidivism by up to 16 percentage points. Moreover, estimated reductions in incarceration time through enrollment in the program indicate an average of $3,800 saved per participant in incarceration costs. I explore heterogeneity in treatment effects, finding that first-time offenders are especially responsive to therapy. The program's group composition and the timing of participation relative to the release date play a role in both the magnitude and persistence of the treatment effects.

Presenter: William Arbour, University of Toronto

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