Intensive Journal ™ Program for Self-Development
Progoff ™ Series of Workshops

Specialized Audiences | Social Services | Criminal Justice

Research Studies

Dialogue House is seeking to organize independent research studies to determine the effectiveness of the Intensive Journal method in helping spur offender rehabilitation. These studies could be done with offenders who are either incarcerated or not. We are especially interested in measuring the short-term impact of using our method over a six to nine month period upon behavior and attitude of offenders.

Please contact Jon Progoff at 800-221-5844 or email: [email protected] for more information if you would like to help us organize a study.

Folsom State Prison Study by Harvey Shrum, Ed.D

Dr. Harvey Shrum tracked the recidivism rate over 100 inmates who attended at least one Intensive Journal program while incarcerated at Folsom Prison. Dr. Shrum concluded:

Empowering Effect:

"Through [the Intensive Journal method’s] non-judgmental, non-analytical nature, it gives the writer a mirroring capability that increases the energy, power, and effectiveness of the process over time. This experience has an empowering effect upon the Intensive Journal writer."

Reduced Recidivism:

"In the ten years since its introduction at Folsom State Prison, not one inmate who had completed at least the introductory Intensive Journal workshop returned to prison."

Powerful Tool for Mental Health Growth:

"Without therapeutic intervention shortly after these events, they [inmates] became at greater risk for antisocial behavior, low-self-esteem, depression, low educational attainment, underemployment, substance abuse, mental illness, and suicidal ideation. The Intensive Journal program helped them to deal with their issues in a safe, supporting environment."

Proven Record of Offender Rehabilitation:

"The Intensive Journal method also holds great promise in rehabilitating inmates as well as preventing young people from taking the path that often leads to addictions and incarceration. It is...conducive in fostering self-improvement,...fostering/developing vocational interests, in increasing awareness and healing of health, addictions, and relationships. It...improves writing and communication skills, enhances relationships with family, and achieves breakthroughs in issues and decision-making."

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