NCJ Number
213429
Journal
Forum on Corrections Research Volume: 17 Issue: 1 Dated: June 2005 Pages: 21-24
Date Published
June 2005
Length
4 pages
Annotation
Through offender population profiling and trend analysis, this study shows the value of systematic assessments and reassessments of an offender's employment as a major risk and need factor.
Abstract
A review of relevant research shows that employment history and employment needs at the time of release from prison are predictive of criminal reoffending. Although education has also predicted reoffending, the strength of this relationship is considerably less than employment. Some employment-related factors linked to a high risk for reoffending are being unemployed 50 percent or more of the time; having an unstable job history; and lacking an occupational skill, area, trade, or profession. Data on admissions to Federal correctional facilities in Canada show that more than half of the men and women were assessed as having employment-related needs. Correctional systems must be able to produce timely and accurate profiles of the education/vocational and work histories of offenders. This information can be used to determine risk levels and correctional needs. It can thus help correctional agencies in directing resources and interventions to priority needs and risks known to be related to reoffending. 4 tables, 3 figures, and 8 notes