Date of Award
Fall 2013
Degree Type
Professional Project - Restricted
Degree Name
Master of Public Service
Department
College of Professional Studies
First Advisor
Margaret Kendrigan
Abstract
This study explores the reasons for low retention rates at a faith-based drug and alcohol treatment program. Participants were 18 (10 female and 8 male) former program enrollees admitted to Teen Challenge Wisconsin between January 2010 and December 2012. Information was collected about the participant's program experiences, their demographic information, and characteristics previously studied as relapse predictors. Results indicated that the majority of participants had negative experiences with staff relationships, vocational training programs, and the expectations of the program, whereas the majority of participants had positive experience with the faith-based aspect and the mentoring program. These results may be informative for TCW and other treatment programs to modify their approach to adequately serve those who are struggling with substance abuse issues.