“Say It Straight” Training with Mothers in Chemical Dependency Treatment

ABSTRACT

Effectiveness of Say It Straight communication training as a treatment component was evaluated with 36 mothers in residential chemical dependency treatment. All were indigent, 32 had previous criminal offenses and 14 were on probation or parole at the time of treatment. Self-reported, disempowering behaviors showed highly significant decreases after SIS training (p < 0.001). Empowering behaviors, quality of family and group life showed significant increases (p = 0.001, p = 0.008, p = 0.015, respectively). Self-esteem, assessed with one group of eight mothers, showed a highly significant increase after training (p = 0.009). Statistically significant differences between mothers in treatment an average of 40 days compared to those in treatment 141 days prior to training disappeared after 10-16 hours of training, although the latter group also showed positive changes. Reports regarding training effectiveness were very positive. Results indicate this training is an important addition to treatment and may have implication for shortened treatment time, increased treatment retention and reduction in relapse/recidivism.

Key Words:

• Chemical dependency
• treatment
• criminal justice
• mothers
• women