Exploring Responsivity in the Context of Violence Reduction

• In Event: Safety and the Consequences of Imprisonment

Abstract

Reducing violence is a major issue. Often it is difficult to understand how the risk-need profile of violent offenders requires different types of programming and services to meet the unique needs of violence-involved offenders. Looking at the individual characteristics of adult and youths that are classified as violent offenders, domestic violence offenders, and drug involved offenders, models for responding to violent and drug behaviors will be highlighted. The methodology for using assessment data to convert in systemic responsive estimates of programming needs will be discussed, as well as the limitations of using assessment data. Results from the models will be presented as well as the issues regarding appropriateness of programs to address the needs of the clients. This presentation will end with a research agenda for programming for reducing violence.

Authors

• Zephi Francis, George Mason University

• Alex John Breno, George Mason University