WHAT IS EBP?

Evidence Based Practices is a method of INTERVENTION that emphasizes measured OUTCOMES and reduces offender risk and subsequent recidivism.  

Until recently, community corrections has suffered from a lack of research that identified proven methods of reducing offender recidivism.  Intervention is considered effective when they reduce offender risk and subsequent recidivism and therefore make a positive long-term contribution to public safety.

HOW IS EBP USED?

There is an integrated and strategic model for evidence supported

practice in community corrections.  This model or framework is based

on a set of principles for effective offender interventions within corrections

systems.  They include but are not limited to:

Use Cognitive Behavioral Treatment Methods – Have offenders explore how their thinking

impacts their behavior

Reward positive behavior at a 4-1 ratio to negative consequences by increasing privileges

Involve & educate family, friends and community members in supporting pro-social activities

and behaviors using:

    - Organized Activities

    - Non-Offender partner involvement

    - Mentoring Programs

Measure progress and provide feedback through program evaluations, Correctional

Program Assessment Inventory (CPAI), offender and staff surveys and

research-based effectiveness

Iowa Risk Assessment/Reassessment – used to determine individual risk of recidivism. 

Score 15 or above is considered high risk, 12-14 high normal, 8-11 minimum, 2 and below

is administrative

LSI-R – Identifies criminal activity, prioritizes the needs of the offender (ex. Alcohol, drugs,

emotional and personal) in order to create plans to enhance pro-social behaviors.

Use Stages of Change (listed below) - Describes a person’s readiness to change

potential problems

Jesness – Self-administered computerized responsivity instrument that determines learning

styles and personality traits that will help in facilitating change

Motivational Interviewing – a respectful style of interacting, exploring and resolving, desire,

ability, reasons, need and commitment to change by expressing empathy, pointing

out conflictive beliefs, rolling with resistance to change and supporting confidence in their

ability to change

Correctional Program Assessment Inventory (CPAI)  – a tool for assessing correctional intervention programs.  Used to ascertain how closely correctional programs meet known principles of effective interventions.

STAGES OF CHANGE