Evaluating the feasibility of prison officers providing guided self-help support to adult male offenders experiencing stress

Lai, J. S.H., Mair, F., McMillan, T. and Williams, C. (2022) Evaluating the feasibility of prison officers providing guided self-help support to adult male offenders experiencing stress. Journal of Forensic Psychology Research and Practice, 22(4), pp. 389-403. (doi: 10.1080/24732850.2021.2013176)

Abstract

With substantial mental health needs, United Nations guidelines recommend prisoners should have access to healthcare of the same standard as non-prisoners. CBT-based self-help is recommended for anxiety and depression; one approach is Living Life To The Full (LLTTFTM). This study evaluated the feasibility of Prison Officers providing guided self-help support to adult male offenders experiencing distress in a Scottish prison. Prison Officers attended training in delivering LLTTF books and worksheets. Seven prisoners completed four one-to-one sessions of LLTTF. A large effect size was associated with improving depression self-ratings pre- to post-treatment. Pre-treatment anxiety and social function were associated with non-significant change. Feedback from Prison Officers and prisoners indicated LLTTF materials would benefit from adaptation for prison, which could be revised with Prison Officers and prisoners. Results suggest further research on guided self-help in prison is worth pursuing. Designated guided self-help workers may be better placed to deliver LLTTF in this or an educational setting.

• Item Type: Articles
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Lai, Jennifer and Williams, Professor Christopher and McMillan, Professor Tom
• Authors: Lai, J. S.H., Mair, F., McMillan, T., and Williams, C.
• College/School: College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Health & Wellbeing > Mental Health and Wellbeing
• Journal Name: Journal of Forensic Psychology Research and Practice
• Publisher: Taylor and Francis
• ISSN: 2473-2850
• ISSN (Online): 2473-2842
• Published Online: 17 February 2022
• Copyright Holders: Copyright © 2022 The Author(s).
• First Published: First published in Journal of Forensic Psychology Research and Practice 22(4): 389-403
• Publisher Policy: Reproduced under a Creative Commons Licence