RESEARCH

The Effect of Horticultural Community Service Programs on Recidivism

Offenders who completed community service in a horticultural environment had a significantly lower recidivism rate of 5.4%. Notably, all offenders (100%) who were not offered the option of community service reoffended within the study period.
Program Types: Vocational
Population Groups: Rehabilitation, Corrections/Justice-Involved
Setting or Context: Natural Areas/Parks/Forest
Health and Wellness Outcomes: Greater Job Readiness & Vocational Skills
Allied Profession Intersections: Education
Type of Activity: Outdoor Gardening, Vocational Skill Development
Evidence Type: Peer-Reviewed Studies, Observational Research, Quantitative Research
Measurement and Evaluation: Program Effectiveness, Longitudinal Studies
Access: Free
Print Form

Summary

The study’s design is a quantitative comparison of recidivism rates among offenders based on the type of community service completed. The central purpose was to determine whether offenders who completed community service in horticultural settings had different incidences of reoffending compared to those in non-horticultural indoor or outdoor settings, or those who received no community service. This research is important as it investigates the potential of horticultural activities to play a significant role in reducing recidivism, which is a major contributor to the high cost and large inmate populations in the United States. The study focused on offenders from a single county in Texas, drawing data from official probation and agency reports.

The methodology involved collecting data from offender profile probation revocation reports, agency records, and community service supervision reports covering a 57-month period. A random sample of 477 case numbers was selected and coded based on demographics, offense type, amount and type of community service completed (categorized as horticultural, non-horticultural indoor, or non-horticultural outdoor), and whether recidivism occurred. The data was analyzed using descriptive statistics and Pearson chi-square tests to compare recidivism rates across the different community service groups and a group that had no community service.

Link

Holmes, M., & Waliczek, T.M. (2019). The effect of horticultural community service programs on recidivism. HortTechnology, 29(4)

 

Other Recommended Research

Boutonnieres

Participants create small wearable floral arrangements using fresh flowers and greenery.

Chili Pepper Garland

Participants create a chili pepper garland by threading either dried or fresh chili peppers onto a string.

Sage Chips

Participants learn how to make crispy sage leaves with freshly harvested sage.

‘The nourishing soil of the soul’: The role of horticultural therapy in promoting well-being in community-dwelling people with dementia

Gardening can help people with dementia feel more active, connected, and less lonely by improving their physical and mental well-being. The article highlights the need for more accessible gardening programs in the community to support social engagement and a better quality of life.

“Connecting people and the earth”: the occupational experience of people with different capabilities participating in an inclusive horticultural social enterprise

This thesis examines how a gardening-based social enterprise helps people of all abilities by providing meaningful work, social connections, and a sense of belonging. While it highlights the benefits of inclusion and community participation, it also points out challenges like funding and governance that need to be addressed for long-term success.

‘Into the Wild’: A meta-synthesis of talking therapy in natural outdoor spaces

This Meta-synthesis highlights the benefits of holding therapy sessions in nature, which can reduce stress, improve mood, and enhance emotional well-being. While outdoor therapy offers unique advantages, such as greater openness and connection with nature, it also requires careful consideration of client suitability and professional training.

Report

Contains abusive or derogatory content
Contains mature or sensitive content
Contains misleading or false information
Contains spam, fake content or potential malware
Harassment or bullying behavior

Block Member?

Please confirm you want to block this member.

You will no longer be able to:

  • See blocked member's posts
  • Mention this member in posts
  • Invite this member to groups
  • Message this member
  • Add this member as a connection

Please note: This action will also remove this member from your connections and send a report to the site admin. Please allow a few minutes for this process to complete.

Report

You have already reported this .