Training community supervision officers in the risk-need-responsivity model of offender rehabilitation: a review and implications

Abstract

The premier paradigm of offender rehabilitation is the Risk-Need-Responsivity (RNR) model and several training programs for community corrections officers to better apply the RNR principles have been developed. This article summarizes and critiques three major training models: STICS, EPICS, and STARR. Furthermore, lessons are drawn from the research to guide further improvements in the training of community correctional staff. The community supervision of persons in conflict with the law is one of the most widely used correctional sanctions in North America and yet, its effectiveness in reducing recidivism is questionable. The review of training programs that capitalize on the RNR model shows that community supervision can lead to changes in officer behavior and reduced recidivism. However, to achieve promising results modifications to the training and to the agencies that adopt such training programs are necessary.