Misalignment in Supervision

Abstract

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. Using interview and observational data, this study explores how POs use an assessment tool during all facets of their work from preplanning, routine administrative tasks, and face-to-face case management interactions with probation clients. Findings suggest POs overwhelmingly administer the RNA tool, but rarely link 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.

How to Improve the YLS/CMI? Exploring a Particularly Predictive Combination of Items

“…The second generation employed actuarial risk methods to evaluate static risk factors, whereas the third included both static and dynamic risk factors. The latest generation of assessment tools encompasses risk and protective factors, both static and dynamic , for the purpose of evaluating risk of recidivism and designing personalized interventions (Bonta & Andrews, 2016; Viglione et al, 2015).…”

Matching Services to Criminogenic Needs Following Comprehensive Risk Assessment Implementation in Juvenile Probation

“…Although the principles of the RNR model are conceptually very simple, the handful of studies to date, which primarily come from the adult system, have indicated that implementing RNR principles is much more difficult (Flores, Travis, & Latessa, 2004; Haas & DeTardo-Bora, 2009; Miller & Maloney, 2013; Viglione, Rudes, & Taxman, 2014). Surveys of practitioners in correctional settings (Flores et al, 2004) and adult probation officers (Miller & Maloney, 2013) report overall poor adherence to use of risk assessment to guide treatment goals.…”

The Role of Stigma Toward Mental Illness in Probation Officers’ Perceptions of Risk and Case Management Decisions

“…Although our findings do not suggest that officers necessarily overclassify offenders with mental illness as higher risk than they actually are, officers do, in comparison, underclassify the nondisordered offender when the two cases are presented together. This finding is notable, because discrepancies in risk ratings can, in turn, lead to biased case management decisions (Andrews et al, 2006; Viglione et al, 2015; Vincent, Guy, & Grisso, 2012).…”

“…Specifically, for example, the RNR Model (Andrews & Bonta, 2010) would dictate that higher risk cases would receive more intensive supervision and programming. Some implementation studies, however, have revealed that risk assessments may have virtually no impact on case management (e.g., Viglione et al, 2015). Our findings paint a more positive picture in that most officers’ case management decisions were consistent with risk ratings.…”