Moral Reconation Therapy
MRT (Moral Reconation Therapy) is a systematic, cognitive-behavioral, step by step treatment strategy designed to enhance self-image, promote growth of a positive productive identity and facilitate the development of higher stages of moral reasoning (Kohlberg)
MRT has been used successfully in correctional facilities and juvenile detention centers and is based, in part, upon the assumption that offenders and drug abusers have relatively low moral reasoning.
Components of MRT
The moral component of MRT seeks to increase participants’ reasoning levels from hedonistic, self-centered concerns to levels that involve concern for the welfare of others
In general, it is assumed that drug usage is mediated by pleasure/pain-based on hedonism and man decisions made by offenders are based upon seeking pleasure, avoiding pain, manipulating others for personal gain and seeking approval from others.
Reconation
The term reconation is derived from conation: “the aspect of personality characterized by a conscious willing…” (Wolman, 1973). Conation was a popular term in psychology until ego processes and cognitive terminology gradually replaced it.
Reconation implies that MRT attempts to facilitate a change in the client’s processes of conscious decision making. Thus, MRT seeks to increase a client’s awareness of decision-making and to enhance appropriate behavior through development of moral reasoning.