NCJ Number
183098
Journal
Forum on Corrections Research Volume: 12 Issue: 1 Dated: January 2000 Pages: 57-60
Editor(s)
Larry Motiuk Ph.D.
Date Published
2000
Length
4 pages
Annotation
The purpose of this study was to explore the predictive utility of the Community Intervention Scale (CIS) for Aboriginal female offenders in Canada.
Abstract
The study sample was selected in May 1999 from the Correctional Service of Canada's Offender Management System. Initial analyses investigated demographic characteristics of the study sample in terms of such variables as age, marital status, and overall risk level at intake. Subsequent analyses focused on need areas of Aboriginal female offenders over an extended period of community supervision. Four different time periods were sampled (less than 6 months, 6-12 months, 12-24 months, and more than 24 months). It was hypothesized that, as length of time in the community increased, the proportion of offenders who experienced problem areas in a particular need area would decline. In general, Aboriginal female offenders were much younger than their non-Aboriginal counterparts and were a higher risk group. They experienced problems in most need domains, but surviving for a longer period of the in the community was not accompanied by a corresponding decrease in need rating. Findings highlighted issues associated with the use of the CIS and the management of Aboriginal female offender risk while under community supervision. Attitude and level of need across domains were related to recidivism. The authors suggest that using the CIS in a more differentiated manner, one that is responsive to gender and culture issues, may enhance its contribution to community supervision of Aboriginal female offenders. 11 footnotes and 2 tables