SOCIAL SERVICE DEPARTMENT-Cog Probation

Social Service

Juvenile Probation and Court Services

SOCIAL SERVICE DEPARTMENT
Cog Probation

The goal of correctional treatment is to reduce recidivism and increase the likelihood of pro-social change and lawful conduct. Cog Probation brings about positive changes by challenging and changing the cognitive processes (thoughts, beliefs and attitudes) that precede criminal behavior.

Cog Probation is a style of service delivery applicable to differing groups of offenders charged with various types of offenses. Cog Probation is based on the most recent research about how particular problem areas in an offender's life (called "criminogenic needs") lead to criminal activity. Examples of criminogenic needs include antisocial attitudes, poor problem solving or coping skills and negative peer associations. Cog Probation assesses offenders for their risk of reoffending and implements programming most appropriate to their needs.

Cog Probation is designed to deal with higher risk offenders. The central components are group meetings that follow lesson plans developed to have an impact on particular offender needs. Group meetings last for the time the offenders are under the court order. Cog supports and reinforces existing assets of offenders, while changing deficits in thought patterns. Put simply, the goals of Cog Probation are:

to change thoughts, attitudes and beliefs;
to change behavior;
to develop habits of choosing and doing the right thing; and
to build positive character and law-abiding conduct.

Cog Probation programs fall into four major types, all of which explore, examine and challenge the thought processes that precede behavior. The four types are as follows:

Cognitive restructuring: addresses character deficits, including such antisocial characteristics as manipulation, selfishness, irresponsibility and impulsiveness.
Cognitive skill development: promotes such skills as problem solving and conflict management.
Life skill enhancement: develops skills related to job seeking and money management.
Behavioral programs: use positive and negative reinforcers to reshape behavior through role playing, practice, homework, feedback, etc.