Misalignment in Supervision: Implementing Risk/Needs Assessment Instruments in Probation

• NCJ Number: 249052
• Journal: Criminal Justice and Behavior Volume: 42 Issue: 3 Dated: March 2015 Pages: 263-285
• Author(s): Jill Viglione; Danielle S. Rudes; Faye S. Taxman
• Date Published: March 2015
• Length: 23 pages
• Grant Number(s): 2011-DB-BX-K010
• Sponsoring Agency: Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA)
• Publication Format: Article; Document (Online)
• Publication Type: Research (Applied/Empirical); Report (Study/Research); Report (Grant Sponsored)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

Risk and needs assessment (RNA) tools are well regarded as a critical component of a community corrections organization implementing evidence-based practices (EBPs), given the potential impact of using such tools on offender-level and system outcomes. The current study examines how probation officers (POs) use a validated RNA tool in two adult probation settings.

Abstract

Using interview and observational data, this study explored how POs use an assessment tool during all facets of their work, including preplanning, routine administrative tasks, and face-to-face case management interactions with probation clients. Findings suggest POs overwhelmingly administered the RNA tool, but rarely linked the RNA scores to key case management or supervision decisions. These findings highlight some of the challenges and complexities associated with the application of RNA tools in everyday practice. Study implications emphasize the need to modify current probation practices to create a synergy between the RNA and related supervision practices. Findings from this study contribute to a better appreciation for how the new penology integrates risk management with client-centered case models to improve outcomes. (Publisher abstract modified)