Multisystemic therapy
Evidence-rated crime-reduction intervention (EMMIE).
Effect on crime
some reduction
Evidence quality
very strong
Cost
low
What the evidence says
Multisystemic Therapy (MST) is an intensive, home-based intervention aimed at families with young individuals facing social, emotional, and behavioral challenges. It engages families to address factors contributing to problematic behaviors, like antisocial behavior and substance misuse. Research indicates that while MST has not shown a statistically significant overall effect on crime, it has demonstrated some potential reductions in arrests and self-reported offending in certain studies.
How it works
MST employs a comprehensive approach, integrating techniques from structural family therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy. It focuses on identifying and modifying individual, family, and environmental factors contributing to youth behavior problems.
Implementation
Implementation may require a time-limited, intensive service with qualified therapists available round-the-clock. Training and quality assurance procedures are suggested to ensure the integrity of program delivery.
Source: College of Policing Crime Reduction Toolkit (What Works Centre for Crime Reduction). Summarised 2026-07-15. BlueLineHub is independent and not affiliated with the College of Policing.