DEVELOPMENT OF BEHAVIOR MODIFICATION PROCESS AND REHABILITATION FOR DRUG ADDICT IN PRISONS

Abstract

Introduction: Criminal offending and crime have become increasingly salient global concerns, undermining social order and public safety. In particular, addressing drug use among incarcerated populations remains a major challenge for correctional systems. Objectives: This study aimed to: (1) examine problems in behavioural change and rehabilitation processes for people with drug use disorders in prisons; (2) explore international standards and selected international approaches to behavioural change and rehabilitation; and (3) propose guidelines for strengthening rehabilitation processes in Thai prisons. Method: This qualitative study comprised two stages: a documentary review of books, academic and research articles, and legal documents; and semi-structured interviews with 10 key informants. Participants included eight correctional officers from Surat Thani Central Prison, Nakhon Si Thammarat Central Prison, the Central Women’s Correctional Institution, and Koh Samui District Prison, as well as two scholars specialising in prison-based drug rehabilitation. The data were analysed to develop recommendations for improving behavioural change and rehabilitation processes for incarcerated people with drug use disorders. Result: The findings indicated that rehabilitation processes in Thai prisons are constrained by delays in screening, difficulties in obtaining reliable information, shortages of specialized personnel, and prisoners limited psychological readiness for assessment. Additional challenges include the inability to separate drug-related offenders from other prisoners, insufficient programmed coverage owing to prison overcrowding, limited post-release monitoring, and inadequate community reintegration support. International guidance from the World Health Organization and the United Nations emphasizes psychosocial support, motivational and behavioral interventions, psychological care, motivational enhancement, and community-based treatment. Singapore’s seamless rehabilitation model comprising in-care treatment, pre-release preparation, and aftercare and social reintegration also highlights the importance of community and societal participation. Drawing on this approach, the study proposes the PDRC Model: Personal Screening, Drug Treatment, Rehabilitation, and Community-Based Care. Policy recommendations include establishing legal mechanisms for post-release monitoring and rehabilitation, preventing relapse and reoffending, and introducing tax incentives for employers who hire former prisoners. Conclusion: Drug rehabilitation in Thai prisons requires an integrated and seamless system that links individual screening, treatment, rehabilitation, community-based care, and post-release support. Strengthened legal mechanisms for post-release follow-up and employment incentives for former prisoners may help reduce relapse and recidivism sustainably.