NCJ Number
143671
Date Published
1990
Length
22 pages
Annotation
A survey was conducted of probation and parole officers in Oklahoma to determine whether a risk/needs assessment instrument was appropriate in deciding supervision level. One hundred and seventy nine of an officer population of 296 responded, for a response rate of 60 percent.
Abstract
The average age of probation and parole officers was 35 years, and the average length of employment was 5.5 years. Of the 179 officers, males comprised 63 percent and females 36 percent. The majority of officers were white and had a bachelors degree. In responding to the use of a risk/needs assessment instrument in deciding supervision level, 37 percent said it was appropriate, 31 percent were neutral, and 33 percent said it was not appropriate. On the other hand, 61 percent agreed that the subjective knowledge of officers was better than the instrument, although 47 percent indicated the instrument was a helpful tool. Officers felt the instrument was useful in identifying high-risk offenders, providing appropriate supervision and other assistance, initial insight into offenders, caseload management, and assuring high-risk cases got intensive supervision. In addition, probation and parole supervisors felt the instrument was useful in evaluating officers, allocating cases among officers, reducing supervision costs, and assuring uniformity in supervision. Data are provided on reasons for using the instrument and links between the instrument and job satisfaction and job effectiveness.