NCJ Number
206061
Date Published
April 2003
Length
69 pages
Annotation
This study reviewed and critiqued the concepts of "risk" and "need" as they relate to assessments of youth within the Canadian criminal justice system, and it identified risk/need assessment tools currently used with young offenders in Canada.
Abstract
Each Provincial/Territorial government was contacted and asked about the primary risk/need assessment instruments used with young offenders, and interviews were conducted with staff to determine the purpose and practice of risk/need assessment at various key decisionmaking stages of the criminal justice system. Attention was given to why certain tools were selected, and information was obtained on any research related to the effectiveness of the risk/need assessment instruments being used. An in-depth analysis of the reliability and validity of the scales was not possible because of a lack of relevant data available for secondary analysis. Researchers conducted 71 semistructured, open-ended interviews in all Provinces and Territories, with the exception of Quebec. There are still a number of questions about the reliability and validity of risk/need instruments currently being used with young offenders, particularly in relation to gender and non-White youth. Some problem areas identified were a tendency to merge risk and need; the potential for gender, racial, or cultural disparity; inconsistency in practitioners' interpretations and understandings of risk/need assessment scores, insufficient training, an absence of uniform audits, inconsistent use of overrides, and concern about the availability of community resources required to manage the risk and needs of youthful offenders. Recommendations pertain to training for the proper administration of the risk/need assessment tool being used, a policy of allowing staff to override instrument findings, reassessments, audits, and community resources. 58 references