Preliminary research informing policy on remote alcohol monitoring in criminal justice: The Scottish experience

Goodall, C. A. , Neville, F. G., Williams, D. J. and Donnelly, P. D. (2016) Preliminary research informing policy on remote alcohol monitoring in criminal justice: The Scottish experience. International Journal of Public Health, 61(8), pp. 865-872. (doi: 10.1007/s00038-016-0886-9)

Abstract

Objectives. To explore the views of Scottish offenders on the impact of alcohol on their experience of offending and their lives in general. Further, to explore their views on the concept of Remote Alcohol Monitoring (RAM) as a way to address alcohol misuse upon liberation from prison. Methods. A convenience sample of 12 serving offenders participated in one of three focus groups. Data were analysed using the principles of thematic analysis. Results. Analysis of the data revealed the significant impact of alcohol on the lives of the participants. Key themes included the amount and frequency of alcohol consumption; the association of alcohol with harm; the association of alcohol with offending; previous attempts to reduce alcohol consumption and possible reasons for failure; and the views of the participants on the utility of RAM in relation to crime prevention. Conclusions. This group of offenders had significant issues with alcohol misuse prior to incarceration that had impacted on their offending and resulted in a variety of health and social harms. Participants were generally positive but pragmatic about RAM, recognising that technology alone may not be enough to change deeply ingrained and addictive behaviours.

• Item Type: Articles
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Goodall, Professor Christine
• Authors: Goodall, C. A., Neville, F. G., Williams, D. J., and Donnelly, P. D.
• College/School: College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Medicine, Dentistry & Nursing > Dental School
• Journal Name: International Journal of Public Health
• Publisher: Springer
• ISSN: 1661-8556
• ISSN (Online): 1661-8564
• Published Online: 13 September 2016
• Copyright Holders: Copyright © 2016 Springer
• First Published: First published in International Journal of Public Health 61(8):865-872
• Publisher Policy: Reproduced in accordance with the copyright policy of the publisher