The in-session self-disclosure experiences of Mexican American men who are on federal probation with co-occurring mental health and substance use issues

The numerous physiological and psychological benefits of self-disclosing about stressful and traumatic events in therapy have been well established. Given the benefits, the following study expands on the disclosure research to include three overlapping areas: 1) the criminal justice system, 2) the co-occurring mental health and substance abuse treatment field, and 3) the study of the social construction of Mexican American masculinity. All three areas are placed within a larger feminist framework. A range of literature is also included to facilitate an understanding of the co-researchers in the study: Mexican American men who are on federal probation with co-occurring mental health and substance use issues.

While researchers have examined the efficacy of several re-entry and rehabilitation programs, there is little clinical process research within the criminal justice system that explores the experiences of this particular population. Additionally, since gender and ethnicity are dominant mediating forces in how reality is perceived, research that is gender and ethnic specific is needed. The purpose of this study, therefore, is to explore the in-session self-disclosure experiences of Mexican American men who are on federal probation with co-occurring issues. The information obtained in the study will be used, in part, to determine ways to facilitate the self-disclosure process within this population, thereby potentially contributing to the level of care provided in aftercare/transitional treatment services.