Browsing by Subject "Evaluation Research"

Counteracting issues of street violence in Finland, the Aggredi program in Helsinki aims to help offenders of street violence manage their violent behaviour. Basing their methods on a social constructionist framework, Aggredi aims to help their clients reduce their violence and life issues. This master’s thesis serves as a process evaluation to the Aggredi program. As a process evaluation, this study outlines Aggredi’s aims and means to assess whether or not the program works as intended. Connecting the study to a framework of criminological theory, the study explores the programs role in the clients detachment from a life of crime, or desistance. Data was gathered by analysing the programs official information and through qualitative semi-structured interviews of program workers and clients. Six individual interviews were conducted on program clients who had recently entered the program. A group interview was conducted for the programs five workers. The interviews were analysed using the qualitative method of thematic analysis and a fact-based perspective. Results show that in practice, Aggredi works to reduce their clients life and violence issues in two ways. Firstly, by attaching them to the program, and secondly, by transferring that attachment to society. Aggredi’s methods of attachment emerge through the programs individualized treatment approach. The results suggest Aggredi’s therapeutic client-worker bond seems to enhance program attachment and motivation. Through working methods of reflective dialog and practical aid, Aggredi’s workers take the roles of pro-social peer mentors. Clients describe their workers exchanging personal opinions, and supporting them in their anger management and issues of daily life. Aggredi’s personalized approach emerges as a possibility for relearning practical skills and social interaction. From a perspective of desistance, the clients explain that Aggredi keeps them motivated to detach themselves from violent crime, but a desire to change is necessary to begin treatment. The program thus emerges as a supporter of clients pre-established maintenance process. Overall, Aggredi’s non-structured approach works in accordance to the programs aims. However, results raise concerns regarding attachment of unmotivated clients and the programs non-structured approach. Development suggestions are proposed regarding Aggredi’s client direction, structure, as well as their treatment methods.