This article explores the treatment methods used in this program and further examines the recidivism rates of program participants. Introduction T here has been a recent focus within the Correctional Service of Canada on assessing the dangerousness of offenders. From this comes a natural concern with the treatment programs being used to reduce the risk of reoffence. Most of this concern has centred on sex offenders, perhaps because of the devastation caused to the victims of sex crimes. It is also important, however, to address the treatment needs of violent offenders.
Violent crimes cause a great deal of harm to victims and have a large cost for society.
Despite this, there are few institutional treatment programs aimed specifically at reducing violent offenders' risk to reoffend. As a result, there is little research on the effects of such treatment on these offenders. The Regional Health Centre in Abbotsford, British Columbia, offers the Intensive Treatment Program for Violent Offenders, a program specifically for federal inmates who are seen as being at a very high risk to reoffend. This program has been running in its current form since November 1990. Sixteen participants spend eight months in the program and are expected to attend on a full-time basis.