ABSTRACT
Classification and assessment of offenders is important in community corrections for numerous reasons. Not only does it provide important information on which decisions such as parole release can be based, but it also helps reduce bias by eliminating factors such as race and gender; enhances public safety through identification of high-risk offenders; helps manage offenders more efficiently; can aid in legal challenges; and, most importantly, improves the effectiveness of corrections programs. This chapter begins with a description of the four principles of offender classification—namely, risk, need, responsivity, and professional discretion. It then explains how offender risk is determined, and gives examples of various assessment tools including those used in assessing juvenile offenders. The ten elements of effective classification and assessment are also discussed. The chapter concludes with a brief discussion of assessment and female offenders.
