International Association for Correctional and Forensic Psychology
Cherie Townsend / / News
In this article, we highlight international research and resources for practitioners in the field that feature criminal justice reform, including items focused on criminal justice and behavior, COVID, and race and racism.
Authors Gina Vincent and Jodi Viljoen first describe what it means for a risk assessment instrument to be “biased” and why some are more susceptible to bias than others. They highlight the decision points within the system where risk assessment instruments are most often used and by whom.
The authors highlight research and positions being taken by individuals and organizations regarding the use of risk assessment instruments. They range from placing them in the context of proper implementation paired with evidence-based practice to never being used because they can’t reliably contribute to equitable consideration and treatment.
The discussion on why risk instruments are not all created the same is most helpful. While practitioners may have already come to this same conclusion, this work provides clear factors that differentiate the instruments, particularly in terms of racial bias. The reference notes for this article are excellent resources for practitioners.
Vincent and Viljoen recommend practitioners:
They also provide recommendations for risk assessment researchers.
The second article, “Do risk assessments play a role in the enduring ‘color line’?”, was written by Yilma Woldgabreal, Andrew Day and Armon Tamatea. It explores the measurement of risk in Western correctional systems and concludes with two recommendations:
The authors end with, “Facilitating discussions among members about white privilege and white fragility should also be a priority for ICPA and other similar associations. Furthermore, there should be more emphasis on creating healing opportunities for people of color that address cultural trauma and a process of self-determination toward a justice system that values, promotes and requires greater involvement in decision-making, program design and delivery” ( p.22).
The report states that women are the fastest growing prison population around the world. Poverty, discrimination, violence, and punitive legal responses are key underlying causes. The report highlights the harmful and negative impact that imprisonment can have on women, their families, and their communities.
The toolkit has three parts. The first part focuses on the unique needs of women, the harmful effects of imprisonment and the case for prioritization of non-custodial measures. The second part highlights what those non-custodial measures might be and their impact. Finally, the third part focuses on special categories of women where additional considerations may be needed.
The document includes a Gender Responsive Assessment Scale that was adapted from the WHO Gender Response Assessment Scale: Criteria for Assessing Programmes and Policies. Readers may find this scale informative and a guide for their work in this area. It is reproduced below.
Cherie Townsend is the IACFP executive director. She also works as an executive coach and consultant. Ms. Townsend previously worked as a leader and practitioner in juvenile justice systems for nearly 40 years.
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