Boosting program integrity and effectiveness of the cognitive behavioral program EQUIP for incarcerated youth in The Netherlands

This study examined whether a “program integrity booster” could improve the low to moderate program integrity and effectiveness of the EQUIP program for incarcerated youth as practiced in The Netherlands. Program integrity was assessed in EQUIP groups before and after the booster. Youth residing in the EQUIP groups filled out pre-test/post-test questionnaires to assess program effectiveness on youth outcomes. After the booster three out of nine program integrity aspects had improved. Although program integrity showed some marginal improvement, no subsequent improvement in program effectiveness was found. EQUIP as practiced in The Netherlands was equally ineffective in reducing youths' cognitive distortions and improving social skills and moral development before and after the booster.