Back to the Science: The Background of the RNR Simulation Tool

• In Event: Lessons from the Field: Implementing the RNR Simulation Tool from the Community to Prison

Abstract

The Risk-Need-Responsivity (RNR) Simulation Tool is an online suite of translational tools designed to help practitioners, administrators, and treatment providers who work with criminal justice clients. These decisional-support tools translate evidence-based practices, specifically the RNR model put forth by Andrews and Bonta, into practice. The RNR Simulation Tool consists of three portals: the RNR Program Tool for Adults, the Assess an Individual tool, and the Assess Jurisdiction’s Capacity. The Program Tool for Adults allows a program to assess how well they are adhering to evidence-based practices in relation to their primary target behavior and identify areas for improvement. The Assess an Individual tool assists to identify the client’s criminogenic needs and (de)stabilizers while appropriately prioritizing and matching those needs to available programming. The Assess Jurisdiction’s Capacity portal provides the jurisdiction with an estimate of how well the capacity of available services/programs meets the actual need of the clients. This presentation will introduce the science behind the RNR Simulation Tool and demonstrate these Tools so that the audience has a full understanding of their purpose and capabilities.

Authors

• Jennifer Lerch, George Mason University

• Faye Taxman, George Mason University

• Amy Murphy, George Mason University