Developing a Risk and Needs Assessment Instrument for Prison Inmates: The Issue of Outcome

• NCJ Number: 245217
• Journal: Criminal Justice and Behavior Volume: 40 Issue: 12 Dated: December 2013 Pages: 1449-1471
• Author(s): Matthew Makarios; Edward J. Latessa
• Date Published: December 2013
• Length: 23 pages
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Report (Study/Research)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

The current research examines differences between a prison classification instrument developed to predict misconduct and a case management instrument developed to predict community recidivism.

Abstract

The assessment of inmate risk and need in prison poses a unique challenge to correctional policy makers because it is used for two purposes: classification and case management. Classification and case management require assessment instruments that are designed to predict two separate outcomes: institutional misconduct and community recidivism. The current research examines differences between a prison classification instrument developed to predict misconduct and a case management instrument developed to predict community recidivism using a sample of 414 inmates in Ohio. The results indicated substantial differences between assessment instruments and that separate risk and needs assessments should be conducted. A hybrid assessment system is suggested that seeks to maximize accuracy and efficiency by including select factors from each instrument. Abstract published by arrangement with Sage Journals.