RESEARCH

Impact of Horticultural Therapy on Vulnerability and Resistance to Substance Abuse Among Incarcerated Offenders

The study examined how a horticultural therapy program in prison affected incarcerated individuals with a history of substance abuse. Results showed that while participants experienced reduced psychological distress and addiction vulnerability, there was little improvement in their ability to resist addiction, suggesting that therapy may help ease emotional struggles but not necessarily build long-term resilience.

Program Types: Therapeutic, Vocational

Population Groups: Corrections/Justice-Involved

Setting or Context: Jails/Prisons

Health and Wellness Outcomes: Improved Mental Health, Increased Sense of Belonging (Reduced Isolation), Improved Stress Management, Greater Job Readiness & Vocational Skills

Allied Profession Intersections: Behavioral Therapy, Social Work

Type of Activity: Outdoor Gardening, Vocational Skill Development

Evidence Type: Peer-Reviewed Studies, Observational Research, Quantitative Research

Measurement and Evaluation: Metrics for Mental Health, Program Effectiveness

Research Source: Academic Journals

Access: Free

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Summary

The study explored the impact of a horticultural therapy program on incarcerated individuals with a history of substance abuse. Researchers found that participants experienced reduced psychological distress and a lower vulnerability to addiction. They approched gardening from an afro-centric perspective, incorporating spiritual and ecological practices. This suggests that engaging in gardening and nature-based activities provided emotional benefits and helped alleviate some of the mental health challenges associated with substance abuse.

However, the study found little improvement in participants’ ability to resist addiction in the long term. While the program helped reduce emotional struggles, it did not significantly enhance positive coping skills or self-reinforcement needed for long-term recovery. This suggests that while horticultural therapy can be a valuable tool for emotional well-being, additional support may be necessary to strengthen resistance to addiction.

Link

Richards, H. J., & Kafami, D. M. (1999). Impact of horticultural therapy on vulnerability and resistance to substance abuse among incarcerated offenders. Journal of Offender Rehabilitation, 29(3-4), 183–193. Taylor & Francis Online. https://doi.org/10.1300/j076v29n03_11

https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1300/J076v29n03_11?casa_token=NUlCqB16Oq4AAAAA:WJOdgdSpedt_Z-VJwstLH6ccLyQYu0O-y75CjQT2snpowzYapCee0aICASFYoVLn16aYLvBjxL-W_A

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