Evidence-Based Practice: Principles for Enhancing Correctional Results in Prisons

• NCJ Number: 226733
• Author(s): Ralph C. Serin
• Date Published: December 2005
• Length: 45 pages
• Grant Number(s): 05C45GJI3
• Sponsoring Agency: National Institute of Corrections; Crime and Justice Institute
• Sale Source: NCJRS Photocopy Services; Crime and Justice Institute
• Publication Format: Document
• Publication Type: Program/Project Description
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America
• Note: Downloaded April 29, 2009

Annotation

This paper presents principles for using research-based methods ("evidence-based practice") in cooperative efforts between prisons and community corrections in ensuring risk-reduction through correctional programming that is efficient and effective.

Abstract

Under the vision presented, prisons are responsible for preparing inmates to return to their communities with a lowered risk for recidivism and an improved quality of life, which requires prison administrators and staff to form teams with community corrections agencies. A key theme of this paper is that effective correctional principles can help in the establishment and operations of community corrections and prisons as members of a corrections team that applies evidence-based practice (EBP). EBP is the body of research and replicable clinical knowledge that describes contemporary correctional assessment, programming, and supervision strategies that produce improved correction outcomes related to the rehabilitation of offenders and increased public safety. The introductory section of the paper discusses the importance of transition from prison to the community in determining corrections outcomes for offenders and the importance of applying EBP in achieving an effective transition. An overview of prison EBP research findings is presented, with attention to prison classification. It notes that prison classification is a specialized risk assessment that ideally uses both static and dynamic factors to facilitate prison adjustment and develop a treatment plan that will decrease the risk of recidivism upon release into the community. Issues important in EBP in correctional programming are the identification of each offender's criminogenic needs (needs linked to criminal behaviors); the use of proven selection and training methods for staff; and the design, delivery, and evaluation of innovative programs as well as programs proven effective in other jurisdictions after rigorous evaluations. The paper concludes with a review of key issues that may impact the implementation of EBP in prison. 1 table, 2 figures, 62 references, and appended EBP principles for effective correctional practice and the measurement of inmate competencies