THE EFFECTIVENESS OF TREATMENT PROGRAM IN REDUCING DRUG RELATED CRIME IN BARANGAY 178, CAMARIN, NORTH CALOOCAN CITY

Abstract

The increasing lack of treatment access in Caloocan is concerning, especially in addressing drug-related issues. This research aims to explore the impact of treatment programs and contribute to the ongoing discourse on improving access to treatment and reducing drug-related crime rates for future research. This research utilizes a descriptive research design using a quantitative method or approach. This research centers on the perspectives of two key groups within the community: twenty (20) barangay officials and forty (40) members of the community. These respondents have firsthand experience and insights into the effectiveness of treatment programs in addressing drug-related crime in Barangay 178 Camarin, North Caloocan City. The researchers secured formal consent from the barangay officials to commence the questionnaire administration. Once approval is granted, the surveys will be distributed in person to the selected respondents. A study involving sixty (60) respondents from Barangay 178, Camarin, North Caloocan City, aimed to assess the effectiveness of treatment programs in reducing drug-related crime. The majority were male, with 56.6% being male and 43.3% female. The study found that the treatment programs significantly impacted drug-related crime reduction. The duration of treatment, the quality of the therapeutic alliance between participants and providers, and individualized treatment plans were key factors. However, the program also negatively impacted participants' mental health, leading to a decrease in drug-related crime. The study also identified problems such as lack of community awareness, insufficient funding, limited access to mental health services, recurrent recidivism, inadequate coordination between law enforcement and rehabilitation efforts, difficulty in ensuring consistent participation, lack of follow-up support, and social and economic factors contributing to a cycle of drug abuse and crime. The study recommends creating comprehensive aftercare plans, launching awareness campaigns, and conducting parallel studies to ensure the program's effectiveness in reducing drug-related crime in Barangay 178 Camarin, North Caloocan City, and to further explore its variables and contexts.