CBT: Proven to Reduce Misconduct and Recidivism

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is widely regarded as the gold standard in correctional programming for its strong evidence base in reducing misconduct and recidivism. As a proven method for changing thoughts and behaviors, CBT helps incarcerated individuals improve decision-making, manage impulses, and address harmful thinking patterns that contribute to negative outcomes. 

At Hustle 2.0, CBT is the foundation of our curriculum, equipping participants with the tools to transform their lives and reduce future incidents.

Making CBT Relatable and Real

While many CBT programs can feel cold, clinical, and disconnected from the realities of incarcerated individuals, Hustle 2.0 takes a different approach. We know that without real-world relevance, this population may resist traditional programs. That’s why our curriculum is practical, accessible, and built around real-life stories and interactive exercises. By connecting CBT principles to the lived experiences of our participants, we create a more engaging and relatable environment that motivates real change.

Practical Tools for a New Path Forward

Hustle 2.0’s curriculum ensures that participants aren’t just learning abstract concepts—they’re gaining actionable skills to reduce misconduct and support successful reentry into society. With Hustle 2.0, you’re not just implementing a program; you’re equipping individuals with the tools to rewrite their future.

The Proof: CBT’s Impact and Cost-Effectiveness

Don’t take our word for it; check out what studies show about CBT: 

• For every $1 spent on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) programming, $24.72 is returned in benefits, making it one of the most cost-effective interventions for reducing crime, improving institutional safety, and fostering successful reentry.¹

• Over a 10-year period, CBT has been shown to reduce violent crime and antisocial behavior by nearly half in high-risk individuals.²

• CBT programs reduce recidivism by 20-30% when targeted at high-risk individuals and implemented effectively, helping incarcerated individuals manage anger, develop interpersonal problem-solving skills, and make better decisions. This makes CBT a proven tool for improving institutional safety and fostering successful reentry.³𝄒⁴

Beyond CBT: Hustle 2.0’s Other Evidence-Based Practices That Drive Real Change

Hustle 2.0 is built on science. Our holistic, research-backed model integrates a range of evidence-based practices (EBPs) to complement the powerful foundation of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), ensuring our curriculum is effective and well-rounded:

1. Choice-Based Learning

We empower participants to take ownership of their progress by giving them choices in their learning paths, reinforcing the sense of personal responsibility that is central to behavior change.

2. Trauma-Responsive Curriculum

Recognizing the impact of trauma on behavior, we create a safe and supportive learning environment that addresses trauma and its effects on decision-making and emotional regulation.

3. Structured Journaling

Participants use journaling as a reflective tool to track their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. This self-reflection deepens their understanding of harmful thought patterns and strengthens CBT practices.

4. Risk-Needs-Responsivity (RNR) Model

By tailoring interventions to each individual’s level of risk and specific needs, we ensure that participants receive the right level of support and challenge, maximizing the effectiveness of our program.

5. Transtheoretical (Stages of Change) Model

Our curriculum meets participants where they are in their readiness for change, providing tailored interventions that help them progress through the stages of change and adopt healthier behaviors.

6. Motivational Interviewing (MI)

We use MI techniques to enhance participants’ motivation to change, helping them overcome ambivalence and engage fully with the program’s transformational tools.

These complementary EBPs ensure that Hustle 2.0’s curriculum is not only research-backed but also deeply responsive to the needs of our participants, enhancing their success in reducing misconduct and preparing for life beyond incarceration.

1. Washington State Institute for Public Policy (WSIPP). (2019). Benefit-Cost Results: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for Adult Offenders. Retrieved from WSIPP.org​ https://www.wsipp.wa.gov/BenefitCost

2. Blattman, C., Chaskel, S., Jamison, J. C., & Sheridan, M. (2022). Cognitive Behavior Therapy Reduces Crime and Violence Over 10 Years: Experimental Evidence. National Bureau of Economic Research, Working Paper 30049. Retrieved from NBER.org​
https://www.nber.org/papers/w30049

3. National Institute of Justice (NIJ). (2017). New Paper Looks at the Use and Impact of Correctional Programming for Inmates on Pre- and Post-Release Outcomes. Retrieved from NIJ.gov​(National Institute of Justice)

4. Grant Duwe, Ph.D. (2017). The Use and Impact of Correctional Programming for Inmates on Pre- and Post-Release Outcomes. National Institute of Justice. Retrieved from NICIC.gov​ (https://nicic.gov/weblink/use-and-impact-correctional-programming-inmates-pre-and-post-release-outcomes-2017)