Many Risk & Needs tests collect criminal history information. In the past, criminal history has been perceived as "risk." On the surface this seems logical. However, by itself criminal history is not a good predictor of recidivism. If offenders are to benefit from rehabilitation and treatment programs--the focus should be on behaviors (criminogenic needs) that need changing. Test scales (measures) can identify these needs.

This vignette emphasizes the importance of test scales. In Risk & Needs tests each scale is included in a test for an important reason. Scale scores provide staff with information upon which offender status decisions and rehabilitation choices can be based. The test scales we are discussing have been termed criminogenic needs. These are the significant factors involved in risk and recidivism predictions. These scales identify problematic attitudes and behavior as well as their severity. This information is important for placing offenders in appropriate levels of supervision and treatment. In contrast, criminal history, by itself, does not clearly identify what needs to change (attitudes and behavior) or their severity, for effective rehabilitation to occur.

Test scales assess attitudes and behaviors important to offender profiles. Scale scores determine problem severity. Scores at or above the 70^th percentile identify problems. The higher the score the more severe the problem. Multiple elevated scales reveal co-existing problems (e.g., codependency on alcohol and drugs).

Domestic Violence Inventory (DVI)
An Example

For more specificity we will discuss the Domestic Violence Inventory (DVI), an automated (computer scored) test. Discriminant validity is demonstrated as follows: the Violence Scale correlates most significantly with assault and domestic violence arrests. The Alcohol Scale correlates most significantly with number of alcohol-related arrests, like DUI. The Drugs Scale correlates most significantly with number of drug-related arrests. The Control Scale correlates significantly with dominating and controlling behavior. And the Stress Coping Abilities Scale correlates significantly with the presence of emotional and mental health problems. Elevated scale scores identify the problematic attitudes and behaviors that need to be worked through if recidivism is to be avoided.

As always, additional information can be provided upon request. Risk & Needs telephone number is (602) 234-3506, our fax number is (602) 266-8227 and our e-mail address is hhl@riskandneeds.com.