A Reality Therapy–Based Group Intervention for Probationers With Substance Use: A Mixed-Methods Pilot Study

Abstract

This pilot study, conducted in Eskişehir, Türkiye, aimed to explore patterns of change in psychological need satisfaction, locus of control, and levels of responsibility among individuals under probation for substance use through a Reality Therapy–based group intervention (RTBGI). Guided by an explanatory sequential mixed-methods design, the quantitative phase employed a quasi-experimental pretest–posttest design (treatment group n = 17; comparison group n = 8), followed by semi-structured interviews in the qualitative phase. The treatment group received a 10-session RTBGI, while the comparison group continued with the routine psychoeducation program implemented in probation settings (SAMBA). Quantitative data were analyzed using the Wilcoxon signed-rank test and the Mann‒Whitney U test, supplemented by Bayesian rank-based analyses. The findings suggest that pretest–posttest changes were observed in the treatment group in the power and fun subdimensions of psychological needs and in the total responsibility score; however, between-group differences in change scores were not clearly supported. A moderate effect size was observed for the between-group difference in the fun subdimension; however, Bayes factors generally indicated weak evidence. Qualitative findings reflected participants’ experiences of the intervention process, particularly in relation to the exploration of psychological needs, locus of control, responsibility, and perceived distancing from substance use. Overall, this study provides preliminary and exploratory evidence of patterns of change in psychological need satisfaction, locus of control, and responsibility levels associated with RTBGI.

Plain Language Summary

A Group Program Based on Reality Therapy for People on Probation Due to Substance Use

Individuals under probation due to substance use may experience difficulties in meeting their psychological needs, managing their lives, and taking responsibility for their actions. These challenges may increase the risk of returning to substance use. This study examined changes observed during participation in a 10-session group program based on Reality Therapy. The program aimed to support participants in meeting their basic psychological needs (belonging, power, freedom, and fun) in healthier ways, increasing awareness of their own behaviors, and taking responsibility for the consequences of their choices. Participants who completed the program showed a tendency toward higher levels of responsibility and self-control and appeared more willing to remain abstinent from substance use. These findings suggest that group programs of this kind may support individuals under probation in their process of social reintegration.