Do Dangerous Groups Need More Treatments?

• In Event: Impacts of Various Prison Treatment Programs on Inmates' Conduct and Mental Health

Abstract

Risk principle has been widely adopted within corrections and it has been identified that high risk clients would respond better to intensive service and dosage in terms of reducing the propensity of reoffending. This “risk x service” doctrine, however, is most often evaluated under the premise of one specific program rather than multiple assignments simultaneously. Little is known of the synergistic effect that multiple assignments may have on high-risk groups. Underestimating the potential impact of joint and marginal efficacy interacting with risk classification may compromise the cost-effectiveness in both criminal behaviors and policy implications. Hence, the current study examines the cost-benefit effectiveness toward various program combinations across different risk levels. This study identifies the optimal matching of institutional interventions in reducing recidivism most cost-effectively by risk classification.

Authors

• Kuan-Ju Chen, Washington State University

• Pak-Sing Choi, Washington State University

• Ming-Li Hsieh, University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire

• Zachary Hamilton, Washington State University