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Therapeutic Community: Theory, Model, and Method

NCJ Number
183761
Author(s)
George DeLeon Ph.D.
Date Published
2000
Length
468 pages
Annotation
This book details the history, conceptual framework, and practice of the therapeutic community.
Abstract
The book describes the contemporary therapeutic community (TC) for addictions as a hybrid, a union of self-help and public support. It is an experiment in progress, reconfiguring the vital healing and teaching ingredients of self-help communities into a systematic methodology for transforming lives. The book’s 25 chapters include data concerning: (1) evolution of the TC and the need for theory; (2) biomedical concepts and the TC perspective; (3) view of the person; (4) physical environment, social organization, work, staff and peers in the TC; (5) program stages; (6) TC models, including privileges and sanctions, surveillance and security, community meetings and the encounter group; (7) individual change, including behaviors, cognitions, emotions, essential experiences and essential perceptions; (8) participation in the change process; (9) internalization and identity; (10) a conceptual framework of the treatment process; and (11) the challenge of evolution in therapeutic communities, including general guidelines for adaptations and modifications. Notes, tables, figures, references, appendixes, indexes