Reducing Crime and Violence: Experimental Evidence from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in Liberia
This study shows that some noncognitive skills and preferences are malleable in adults, and that investments in them reduce crime and violence
Abstract
We show that a number of noncognitive 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 one-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.
This research is part of the Gender, Growth and Labour Markets in Low-Income Countries programme
Citation
Blattman, Christopher, Julian C. Jamison, and Margaret Sheridan. 2017. “Reducing Crime and Violence: Experimental Evidence from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in Liberia.” American Economic Review, 107 (4): 1165-1206.
Link
Reducing Crime and Violence: Experimental Evidence from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in Liberia