The Effects of Vipassana Meditation and Other Rehabilitation Programs on Alcohol and Drug Relapse and Criminal Recidivism

The specific aims of the proposed research are to evaluate the efficacy of Vipassana meditation as a correctional intervention (a) to reduce alcohol and other drug use, and its concomitant problems, (b) to reduce recidivism, and (c) to enhance the opportunity for a more balanced lifestyle, including increased self-awareness, self-efficacy, and hopefulness. Vipassana means "“to see clearly” and is a non-sectarian practice. Vipassana is described as ordinary experience plus mindfulness plus equanimity yielding insight and purification and is initiated within a highly structured ten-day course. In non-inmate populations, the practice of Vipassana has been shown to be effective in reducing impulsiveness and increasing tolerance of common stressors. Preliminary results with inmate populations also show promise for its effectiveness in reducing alcohol and substance abuse, reducing recidivism, reducing psychopathological symptoms, and increasing more positive behaviors such as cooperation with prison authorities. To date, studies of Vipassana as an intervention in correctional facilities have been conducted primarily in India. Vipassana meditation, in particular, is being evaluated as an intervention technique with this King County Jail inmate population because the ten-day course is an ongoing program at the facility and because there is interest in implementing Vipassana meditation courses in other jurisdictions