Evaluation of the Multi-Site Demonstration Field Experiment: What Works in Reentry Research (DFE)

The goal of the Demonstration Field Experiment, DFE, is to obtain rigorous evidence on the effectiveness of a carefully designed model that aims to promote successful transitions from prison to the community. Program impacts will be assessed by randomly assigning eligible offenders to either an experimental or control group. Both groups will be followed for at least one year to assess whether significant differences emerge in key outcome areas. In addition to measuring overall impacts, the study will examine impacts for key subgroups, for example, offenders with low and medium/high risk of reoffending, since research has shown that program effects often vary by risk and need level. An initial operational pilot will assess whether the programs are operating with fidelity to the design and are ready for randomization. A group of site-based research assistants will be responsible for verifying the eligibility of study subjects, obtaining their consent to participate in the study, administering baseline and follow-up surveys conducting random assignment, and ensuring that subjects are referred to the appropriate treatment. The goal of the Demonstration Field Experiment, DFE, is to obtain rigorous evidence on the effectiveness of a carefully designed model that aims to promote successful transitions from prison to the community. A fidelity monitoring and process study will assess adherence to the program protocol and document the operation of the demonstration programs. Data from program management information systems will be used to measure the dosage of services delivered to the experimental group. Outcome data for both groups will be collected from sample member interviews and administrative records. Criminal justice data on arrests and convictions will be collected. The total sample size for the study will be dependent on subsequent decisions by the National Institute of Justice and the Bureau of Justice Assistance. The proposed target sample is 900 individuals (150 per site) from both research groups for the survey. Program impacts will be assessed by comparing the average outcomes for experimental and control group members. Regression adjustment to increase the power of statistical tests will be used. Subsequent analysis will assess the economic costs and benefits of the interventions. Subsequent results may lead to the development of theoretically sound reentry strategies, which should serve to advance practice. The value of this study lays in trying to answer the 'what works for whom' question that plagues the field. ca/ncf