Experiences of Male Offenders in a Mindfulness-Based Program: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

Using a thematic analysis approach, this study explored the experiences of men on probation or parole who participated in an adapted version of mindfulness-based relapse prevention (MBRP) for addictive behaviors (Bowen et al., 2011) while receiving services in a community re-entry treatment center. A focus on anger regulation was intentionally integrated into the 8 weekly MBRP group sessions, and participants’ overall experience was investigated through semi-structured interviews at the end of the course. A summary of the study, major findings, and results related to the literature are presented for the consideration of human service professionals working in correctional and community justice systems.