The Predictive Validity of a Gender-Responsive Needs Assessment

Abstract

Risk assessment and classification systems for women have been largely derived from male-based systems. As a result, many of the needs unique to women are not formally assessed or treated. Emerging research advocating a gender-responsive approach to the supervision and treatment of women offenders suggests that needs such as abuse, mental health, substance abuse, relationship difficulties, self-esteem, self-efficacy, and parenting issues are important treatment targets. Although these needs may be highly prevalent among women offenders, they have not been adequately tested to determine their relationships with future offending. In response, the present study sought to understand whether gender-responsive needs contributed as risk factors to poor prison adjustment and community recidivism. Additionally, several types of risk assessment models were explored to determine whether gender-responsive needs enhanced the validities of currently established risk classification.

Understanding Women in Prison: A Review of Gender Specific Needs and Risk Assessments and their Policy and Research Implications

“…In comparison, incarcerated men only reported a 2%-6% rate of sexual abuse (Bureau of Justice Statistics, 1999). Other studies have found the rate much higher, around 75%, which could be the consequence of underreporting (Owen & Bloom 1995;Salisbury et al 2009). The high discrepancy between men and women make this issue gender specific.…”

“…Major mood disorders, such as those frequently seen with women, can be overlooked if they have not been previously diagnosed and recorded. (Salisbury et al 2009) Even though mood disorders have a significant impact on female recidivism, (Deschenes et al 2007), lack of attention is given to them during assessment. …”

“…Self esteem and efficacy refers also to financial empowerment, and creating a sense of control in ones life to complete certain goals (Salisbury et al 2009).…”

“…Often criminal behavior is derived from the need to maintain these dysfunctional relationships. When asked to commit criminal acts to secure a partner's needs, in the face of abandonment or abuse, these women will easily turn to criminal activity (Salisbury et al 2009;Richie 1996). Unlike men, women often turn to crime to protect relationships in their life.…”

“…This means that those under community supervision, parole or probation, have their recidivism risk determined by an actuarial assessment. Because of this, these tools are the driving force behind policies directly effecting philosophy and program access in prisons (Salisbury et al 2009). Whatever is deemed crucial within the risk assessment community is then used to funnel money into programs and other initiatives to reduce recidivism.…”