Evaluating a Modified Version of the Federal Prison System's Inmate Classification Model

Abstract

This study evaluated the objective and predictive value of the Nebraska Department of Corrections' Inmate Classification Model, a variation of the Federal Prison System's Model. A sample of 458 male offenders was assessed on 11 predictor variables—5 classification variables and 6 demographic variables—and 5 institutional adjustment variables. The results indicated that the Nebraska model was making objective classification decisions based solely on the classification variables. However, the model was not a valid instrument for predicting the offenders' institutional adjustment problems. Age and education level—two variables not included in this model—emerged as the best predictors of adjustment. These findings suggest that the model's predictive value could be improved by incorporating valid predictor variables into the classification process.