Readiness to change as a predictor of drug-related behaviors in a sample of rural felony probationers.

OBJECTIVE

Relationships between readiness to change and common drug-related behaviors were explored in a sample (N = 776) of rural probationers in the state of Kentucky.

METHODS

Self-reported data was gathered on measures of readiness to change, frequency of marijuana use, possession of drugs/related paraphernalia, and driving while under the influence of drugs/alcohol at time periods before and after arrest.

RESULTS

Independent of the influence of demographic characteristics such as age, gender, race, and treatment history, increases in readiness to change scores were accompanied by reductions in all three drug-related behaviors.

CONCLUSION

Readiness to change has important implications for treatment involving rural probationers.