Since 1992, interventions within the Canadian correctional system have been guided by the Risk Management Model (RMM). This article presents a critical analysis of that model. In the view of the authors, the RMM does not focus on rehabilitating offenders, but rather on ensuring their social compliance. Moreover, the Model is not clinical or professional in nature; it is essentially a techno-bureaucratic model. From an empirical perspective, the authors bring into question several aspects implied by the Model, specifically those having to do with human qualities, rationality, relevance, effectiveness and efficiency. In conclusion, they wonder what could explain that such a model continues to prevail.

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