Readiness for change: assessing employee commitment to peer worker integration in drug court settings

Abstract

This study assessed Drug Court employees’ readiness and perceived commitment to peer worker integration. Results demonstrated readiness for change is a precursor of commitment to peer worker integration, and appropriateness and personal benefit are key readiness factors when assessing Drug Court employees’ commitment to peer worker integration. Additionally, the mindset of desire or obligation drives employees’ commitment to change and provides an opportunity to cultivate employees’ behavioral support for peer worker integration. Results suggest that Drug Courts establish initial and ongoing training for staff that focuses on the peer worker’s purpose while also ensuring a strategic communication plan on the role and function of the peer worker. Further, Drug Courts can consider focusing on formally incorporating peer workers into the policies and procedures of Drug Courts and establishing an evaluative process that includes peer workers in terms of Drug Court outcome measures.

Keywords:

• Drug courts
• criminal justice
• behavioral health
• substance use
• peer worker integration
• readiness for change

Disclosure statement

The authors confirm that they have no conflict of interest to declare.