Chemical Dependency Disposition Alternative

This project evaluated the state’s new Chemical Dependency Disposition Alternative (CDDA) program, a sentencing alternative for chemically dependent juvenile offenders. The project began with a comprehensive literature review to provide the scientific basis for the treatment interventions chosen for use in the CDDA program. As part of the literature review, researchers outlined the elements of effective chemical dependency treatment programs for adolescents as well as develop standards for measuring the effectiveness of these treatment programs. The standards included outcome measures for treated adolescents and program specific variables such as level of program implementation. These standards will provide DSHS with criteria to prioritize funding for inpatient and outpatient treatment provided under the CDDA program. Researchers then designed and performed a longitudinal evaluation utilizing these standards at 6, 12, and 18 months following client participation in the CDDA program. A process evaluation and cost-benefit analysis was also be conducted. The study aimed to document efficacy of existing CDDA programs and suggest recommendations for program improvements.

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