The role of ethnicity in the admission process of male juvenile released offenders: Examining risk and readiness to change in the Israeli Shushan centers.

Abstract

Disparities in evaluating readiness to change and recidivism risk across diverse cultural groups can profoundly affect rehabilitation program efficacy. This study examines readiness to change and recidivism risk disparities between Israeli-Arabs and Israeli-Jews entering a re-entry program by the Prisoner Rehabilitation Authority postrelease. The University of Rhode Island Change Assessment Scale questionnaire gauged readiness to change, whereas the Ohio Youth Assessment System-Residential tool assessed recidivism risk. The sample included 151 participants: 98 Israeli-Arabs and 53 Israeli-Jews. Mean differences in change readiness and recidivism risk were statistically assessed through t tests. Significant differences emerged in change readiness levels between Israeli-Arabs and Jews upon rehabilitation program entry, with Israeli-Jews exhibiting higher readiness. Additionally, a noteworthy divergence in recidivism risk was noted, indicating elevated average risk for Israeli-Jews. Findings underscore the vital need for cultural sensitivity during admission. Bias potential in assessing risk for Arab participants emphasizes the necessity of a comprehensive culturally sensitive approach. While focusing on admission, the Risk-Need-Responsivity model application could enhance risk evaluation and guide culturally tailored treatments.