A System for Diagnosis, Referral, and Rehabilitation of Persons Convicted of Driving While Intoxicated: A Special Rehabilitation Program for Multiple Offenders

Boyatzis, Richard E. · 1977 · ROSA P / United States. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration

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Summary

This report presents a comprehensive system for the diagnosis, referral, and rehabilitation of individuals convicted of driving while intoxicated (DWI), with a specific focus on multiple offenders. The research was motivated by the need to improve the effectiveness of short-term education and rehabilitation activities for this population. The authors argue that traditional methods are insufficient and propose a system that links diagnostic assessment directly to tailored rehabilitation objectives. The goal is to reduce the hazard posed by intoxicated driving while helping individuals increase their freedom of choice and behavioral control. The methodology centers on a diagnostic framework that assesses individuals on three dimensions: the Adaptability Factor (response to stress and inner conflict), the Sociocultural Factor (environmental influences on alcohol use), and the Severity Factor (interference of alcohol consumption with life functioning). Diagnosis is conducted via a structured interview, which underwent preliminary field testing to establish construct validity, though the authors note that further testing with a representative sample is required for full validation. Based on this assessment, specific rehabilitation objectives are formulated, and individuals are referred to appropriate programs. The report details a special rehabilitation program for multiple offenders, structured as a 34-session group therapy course conducted over 52 weeks. This program utilizes experiential learning as its primary treatment technique, incorporating concrete experiences, reflective observation, abstract conceptualization, and active experimentation. The rehabilitation program is designed to help clients achieve specific goals, including setting plans for abstinence or controlled drinking, reducing alcohol consumption and related convictions, and improving knowledge of alcohol’s effects. The curriculum progresses developmentally: initial sessions focus on establishing norms and developing adaptive behaviors; subsequent sessions address sociocultural influences and resistance to group pressure; later sessions examine interference in job, family, and psychological functioning; and final sessions focus on creating and implementing a comprehensive life plan. The program employs various instructional methods, including role-playing, behavioral contracting, and homework assignments to facilitate the application of skills to daily life. The report provides an Instructor’s Guide and Client Journal to support the implementation of these activities. The significance of this work lies in its structured approach to linking diagnosis with targeted intervention, moving beyond generic treatment models. By identifying specific behavioral and environmental factors contributing to DWI, the system aims to provide more relevant and effective rehabilitation. The report concludes that while preliminary validation supports the diagnostic interview, broader testing is necessary. The detailed program materials offer a practical framework for counselors to facilitate compassionate and efficient behavioral change, emphasizing the development of personal responsibility and adaptive skills to prevent future intoxicated driving.

Key finding

The structured diagnostic interview demonstrated construct validity for the three assessment factors, and the 34-session experiential learning program was developed to help multiple DWI offenders achieve specific rehabilitation objectives.

Methodology

mixed_methods

Provenance

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Topics

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• older driver retraining