Abstract
Abstract
This article presents preliminary findings from an exploratory, qualitative research study that examined the impact of Great Plains Restoration Council's (GPRC) environmentally based pilot program Restoration Not Incarceration (RNI), which targets the restoration of Houston (TX) prairies, bayous, wetlands, and Gulf Coast shore, in conjunction with rehabilitation and recidivism reduction of young adults with a history of involvement in the criminal justice system. The program is based on an interdisciplinary framework that combines ecopsychology and social work to promote ecological health through a structured curriculum, psychosocial group work, and ecological restoration work in nature. Preliminary findings show that RNI helped young adults reintegrate into society by achieving new insight and is associated with improved life outcomes. The study also revealed important challenges faced by participants. Implications for ecopsychology and social work practice are discussed, as well as areas for future research.
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