This report from the Vermont Center for Justice Research examines the effectiveness of evidence-based initiatives to reduce recidivism.
The results of a survey of Vermont criminal justice service providers found that the most effective principles of recidivism reduction included the following: 1) treatment/programming should focus on offender risks and criminogenic needs; 2) treatment/programming should be individualized; 3) interventions should have cognitive-behavioral approaches; 4) therapeutic communities or separate living areas or units should be provided for those receiving treatment while incarcerated; 5) training should be provided to those assisting offenders; 6) multi-stage approaches should be used to provide services of offenders while incarcerated and after release with options for self-paced progression through treatment/program; 7) positive incentives should be used for changing behavior; and 8) specialty courts should be used to address the needs of the offender from a holistic approach. This report from the Vermont Center for Justice Research was commissioned by the State legislature to examine the effectiveness for evidence-based initiatives to reduce recidivism. The evaluation encompassed two parts: a literature review of innovative programs and initiatives, and a survey of criminal justice providers in the State who could identify innovative programs and assess the level of evidence-based programming in the State. The report includes descriptions of evidence-based programs in the State and around the country that have proven to be effective at reducing recidivism. A summary of 11 recidivism risk assessment tools is also included in the report. Appendixes