Probation officer use of client-centered communication strategies and change talk in adult probation settings

• In Event: Risk and Needs in Supervision Agencies: Key Issues

Abstract

With the emergence of evidence-based practices (EBPs) in many correctional organizations, practitioners, like probation officers, are required to rethink the way they do their job. A challenge for probation officers in using EBPs is the simultaneous shifts that occur in their role from monitoring and supervision to that of a change agent. Motivational interviewing (MI) is an example an EBP that requires probation officers to change the way they supervise and interact with probationers. MI originates from a client-centered counseling approach that emphasizes empathy, optimism, and respect for client choice and is a “client-centered” style of interaction that can increase compliance and encourage healthy behavior change. As part of a larger project, the current study examines use of motivational, client-centered communication strategies. Using survey and observational data, this work considers: 1) probation officer comfort using motivational communication strategies and 2) the way in which probation officers communicate with probationers. Findings suggest that staff attempt to integrate client-centered, motivational techniques in their interactions with probationers, directive strategies dominate probation officer-probationer interactions. Study implications emphasize the need for continuing education and training on client-centered communication strategies as a means to improve long-term offender outcomes and move away from traditional risk management practices.

Authors

• Faye Taxman, George Mason University

• Jill Viglione, George Mason University

• Danielle Rudes, George Mason University