ABSTRACT
The evidence-based practices (EBP) label implies that there is accumulated research to confirm the validity of a practice, policy, or intervention. A variety of evidence-based or informed practices have been identified for the field of corrections, and there is a general consensus that the EBPs cover the major components of managing individuals in the justice system. The key decision points that are included are: intake including screening and assessment, case planning, interventions including treatment and social controls, graduated responses to address compliance, and working relationship or therapeutic milieu. The use of a standardized risk and need assessment tool is one of the most important EBPs. The standardized risk and need assessment instrument is used to identify those factors that affect the likelihood that an individual will be successful on supervision. EBPs are relevant in an era when the pendulum is swinging from punitive or retributive punishments to rehabilitative sanctions.
