Putnamville program focuses on inmates and their spouses

PUTNAMVILLE -- Fifteen incarcerated individuals and their spouses participated in a recent three-day Prevention and Relationship Enhancement Program (PREP) at the Putnamville Correctional Facility.

"Now I have confidence in my future," offender Lloyd Russell, of Holland, Ind., said following the weekend event. "I liked how the program focused on communication and making decisions together and how important it is to eliminate underlying or hidden issues that would cause drama in a relationship".

PREP is a pre-marital/ marital education program designed to help couples reduce or limit risk factors and raise protective factors by focusing on conflict resolution, reduction of negative behavioral patterns, enhanced communication, and, emotional connection and security.

Marital conflict and divorce have a damaging effect that can result in economic, medical and mental health problems for those incarcerated, their spouses and their children.

Organized by Rick Hayes, facility program coordinator, and facilitated by a host of volunteers, couples participate in comprehensive classes that promote positive interaction and are taught coping techniques and strategies for marital success.

"Family dynamics play a significant role in whether or not an offender re-offends. Offenders who have positive, supportive family relationships are less likely to recidivate," Putnamville Supt. Stanley Knight said.

Statistically, people who have healthy marriages have better health, live longer, and are well adjusted in society.