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Reducing crime and violence: Experimental evidence from cognitive behavioral therapy in Liberia [Appendix]

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  • Christopher Blattman
  • Julian Jamison
  • Margaret Sheridan

Abstract

We show that a number of "non cognitive" skills and preferences, including patience and identity, are malleable in adults, and that investments in them reduce crime and violence. We recruited criminally-engaged men and randomized half to eight weeks of cognitive behavioral therapy designed to foster self-regulation, patience, and a noncriminal identity and lifestyle. We also randomized $200 grants. Cash alone and therapy alone initially reduced crime and violence, but effects dissipated over time. When cash followed therapy, crime and violence decreased dramatically for at least a year. We hypothesize that cash reinforced therapy's impacts by prolonging learning-by-doing, lifestyle changes, and self-investment.

Suggested Citation

  • Christopher Blattman & Julian Jamison & Margaret Sheridan, 2016. "Reducing crime and violence: Experimental evidence from cognitive behavioral therapy in Liberia [Appendix]," Artefactual Field Experiments 00545, The Field Experiments Website.
  • Handle: RePEc:feb:artefa:00545
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Cited by:

    1. Duncan Webb, 2022. "Critical Periods in Cognitive and Socioemotional Development: Evidence from Weather Shocks in Indonesia," PSE Working Papers halshs-03542607, HAL.
    2. Duncan Webb, 2022. "Critical Periods in Cognitive and Socioemotional Development: Evidence from Weather Shocks in Indonesia," Working Papers halshs-03542607, HAL.
    3. Opoku-Agyemang, Kweku A., 2017. "Narcissism Over Ideology: Revealed versus Stated Terrorist Preferences," SocArXiv 5fj2x, Center for Open Science.

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