Enhanced Thinking Skills (ETS)

ETS is a group programme for both male and female offenders. The programme is based on the premise that teaching thinking skills will enhance a person's ability to achieve valuable goals. The programme involves specific exercises and targets six specific areas to improve thinking skills and reduce the likelihood of re-offending.

		Interpersonal Problem Solving – This programme uses a logical approach to solving problems and aids offenders to reduce their mistakes in thinking and develop social ways of resolving problems.
		Cognitive Style – This programme develops flexible thinking and reduces rigid responses. The programme specifically encourages creativity and lateral thinking.
		Self Control – This programme aims to reduce impulsive thinking and behaviour by encouraging a reflective thinking style. This includes consideration of consequences relating to actions.
		Social Perspective Taking – This programme aims to enhance awareness, understanding and consideration of different points of view.
		Moral Reasoning – This programme explores moral reasoning by looking at values and issues relating to fairness. It also considers others' welfare and equity.
		Critical Reasoning – This programme initiates reflective thinking relating to oneself. It also aims to identify irrational beliefs and recognise how thinking is affected by emotions, experiences and other factors.

The programme consists of 20 sessions of two and a half hours over 40 – 50 weeks.

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