Citation

Dickinson KP. J. Hum. Resourc. 1981; 16(4): 551-599.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1981, University of Wisconsin Press)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

The expected impact of Supported Work on former drug addicts' employment, crime, and drug use are derived from two models: the human capital model and a model of endogenous tastes. Empirically, Supported Work is found to increase the earnings of at least some ex-addicts, primarily due to increases in hours worked rather than wage rates. The program also reduced ex-addicts' crime, producing the greatest impact on the robbery and drug-related crimes and changing the relationship between crime and employment. The program did not affect ex-addicts' recidivism to drugs. The pattern of effects only partially supports the human capital model, and there is also some support for the model of endogenous tastes.