– The purpose of this paper is to outline and evaluate the development of a thinking skills programme for adults with learning disabilities at risk of offending.
– The programme was evaluated over three years using self-report clinical measures related to treatment targets and feedback from participants.
– Results showed a statistically significant improvement in general empathy (t=1.800, df=15, p=<0.05) and perspective taking (t=1.898, df=15, p=<0.05). Improvement in impulsivity and locus of control was not significant. Feedback from service users was positive.
– Findings suggest that thinking skills programmes can be of benefit to adults with learning disabilities at risk of offending.
– There is a need to provide opportunities for adults with learning disabilities to address generic deficits and factors supporting offending behaviour and to increase readiness for offence-specific treatment.
