CompletedNot Applicable

The Effects of the GPS Program in Offenders

270 participantsStarted 2013-05

Plain-language summary

This randomized controlled trial aimed to assess the efficacy of a 40-session cognitive-behavioral group program, Growing Pro-Social (GPS), in reducing early maladaptive schemas and cognitive distortions (primary outcomes), as well as anger, shame and paranoia (secondary outcomes). The GPS's impact on behavioral change (e.g., in the reduction of disciplinary incidents and prison records) was also tested, in order to ascertain if changes observed in cognitive and emotional variables were reflected in a more adjusted behavioral pattern. Personality Disorders were also tested as moderators of treatment effects.

Who can participate

Age range18 Years – 40 Years

SexMALE

See this in plain English?

AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.

Inclusion criteria

✓. male prison inmates aged between 18 and 40 years old
✓. remaining in prison for at least 24 months (taking into account GPS's 12-month length and 12-month follow-up assessment), since the beginning of the program.

Exclusion criteria

✕. presence of cognitive disabilities (because GPS is not suitable for the cognitively-impaired)
✕. psychotic symptoms (the experiential exercises used in the program are contraindicated for psychotic patients)
✕. being treated for drug abuse/dependence (cessation or at least substantial reduction of drug or alcohol use must precede GPS treatment)
✕. being sentenced exclusively for sexual offenses (sex offenders would benefit from more specific intervention programs)

What they're measuring

Early maladaptive schemas

Timeframe: From baseline to 12 months' follow-up

Cognitive distortions

Timeframe: From baseline to 12 months' follow-up

Trial details

NCT IDNCT03013738

SponsorUniversity of Coimbra

Sponsor typeOTHER

Study typeINTERVENTIONAL

Primary completion2016-07

View on ClinicalTrials.gov More Male Prison Inmates trials