Criminal justice systems

What Works Effective Recidivism Reduction and Risk-Focused Prevention Programs Frank, Austin. “Alcoholics Anonymous and the Challenge of Evidence-Based Medicine” The New York Times, (April 6, 2015). Film: You will be viewing the Thirteenth (13th) film which is available on Netflix. It is a powerful documentary nominated for an Academy Award. In addition, you must watch the full clip of Michelle Alexander’s interview about mass incarceration. It can be found here https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=om2hx6Xm2JE In addition, the “Deaf in Prison” film clip is here: Deaf in Prison. (Optional: view “G-Dog” which is a documentary about an intervention program for at risk youth.) This week we discussed the criminal justice system and the ways in which people (particularly those of color) with drug, alcohol, mental illness are warehoused in a system that often penalizes their problems rather than giving them access to treatment. Please read the articles and watch either film in the context of what we learned in class this week. In the field of public health, we seek evidence-based solutions to intractable problems that can be backed-up with research evidence. A critical component of public health research is program evaluation to see whether the goals of the organization aligns with the interventions provided. In other words, is the program effective? Consider the following questions (Be sure to quote from or reference at least 3 sources, including but not limited to film, articles, textbook, etc.): 1. Do you believe that recidivism reduction interventions can work to reduce mass incarceration? If so, why or why not? Please provide evidence supporting your conclusions. 2. Do you believe that G-Dog’s or another selected recidivism reduction intervention is effective? Why or why not? Might it be more effective than the AA program or another program? Research another intervention programs specifically targeting drug and alcohol use, mental illness, and incarceration (the first two may lead to the latter) that may effective. If you believe they are effective (or not effective) please provide evidence to support your conclusions. 3. Come up with an example of a public health program addressing one of the issues discussed this week that has unwanted outcomes or outcomes which are inconsistent with its mission statement. Please describe the issue