Informing the IDRACS Risk-Needs-Responsivity Tool Development: A Meta-Analysis of Community Supervision Risk Assessments

• In Event: Assessing Re-arrest Using Predictive Modeling: The Integrated Dynamic Risk Assessment for Community Supervision Tool

Abstract

The Integrated Dynamic Risk Assessment for Community Supervision (IDRACS) risk-needs-responsivity tool is a comprehensive assessment designed to capture criminogenic needs, responsivity factors, and strengths of individuals under community supervision. It complements the IDRACS risk classification system by creating a needs profile for individuals on probation and capturing additional information to inform case planning. The tool was created through an extensive literature review and a thorough meta-analysis of existing risk assessment tools, grounding it in empirically associated factors. The meta-analysis systematically reviewed numerous studies to identify patterns and derive evidence-based conclusions about the predictive validity of various domains and items included in widely used risk-needs assessment tools. By incorporating the principles of effective intervention, the IDRACS tool aims to promote person-centered supervision, reduce recidivism, and promote positive outcomes for individuals under community supervision. The development process included pilot testing, curriculum design, and implementation phases to ensure practical applicability and sustainability within the Georgia DCS. This approach provided a robust framework for case management while emphasizing the importance of validated criminogenic need domains and specific responsivity factors. This presentation describes the meta-analysis and domains used in the tool’s development.

Authors

• Kristin Bechtel, RTI International

• Jamie Newsome, RTI International

• Alicia McKay, RTI International

• Curtis Donovyn Smith IV, University of California, Irvine

• Christopher Inkpen, RTI International