The Eight Principles of EBP for
Community Corrections

A Framework for Better Outcomes and Recidivism Reduction

Evidence-Based Practices consist of eight principles to help guide effective intervention within the community corrections space. Research shows that combining the concepts of each principle results in a greater likelihood of reducing criminal recidivism.

1. Assess Actuarial Risk and Need

Not every program or intervention works for every client. In fact, providing too much, too little, or the wrong kind of treatment services can not only fail to improve client and program outcomes but can make them worse. A successful intervention must begin with an assessment of the individual to determine their unique needs and risks and the best course of action to take to effectively reduce criminal behaviors. 

2. Enhance Intrinsic Motivation

For lasting and effective behavior change to occur, corrections officers must help facilitate a strong internal motivation within the client. Environmental factors, negative influences, and poor relationships can all adversely affect interventions. Research shows that motivational interviewing and sensitive and constructive interpersonal communication from officers can help increase intrinsic motivation in clients and help initiate and maintain lasting behavior change.

3. Target Interventions

Studies have found that the best outcomes in the criminal justice system are achieved when the intensity of supervision is matched to a client’s risk for recidivism (criminogenic risk), or likelihood of failure in rehabilitation (prognostic risk), and when corrections and treatment programs are focused on the specific disorders or conditions that predispose an individual to criminal behavior (criminogenic needs). Assessment and screening tools based on risk, need, and responsivity (RNR) principles can provide the best insight on a client’s risk and need levels to properly match them to interventions and supervision regimens.

4. Skill Train with Directed Practice

To influence a client’s behavior change, it is imperative that corrections officers communicate effectively and teach clients the skills they need to be successful, such as problem-solving,  regulating emotions, and redirecting anti-social thinking. Corrections programs using cognitive-behavioral treatment methods in both group and one-on-one sessions through role-playing and positive reinforcement are proven to help reduce criminal recidivism.

5. Increase Positive Reinforcement

Positive reinforcement is the key to influencing successful behavior change—delivering rewards, affirmations, and incentives for accomplishments encourages clients to adopt prosocial attitudes. Swift and certain sanctions for infractions must still be used when appropriate, but a focus on positive over negative reinforcement better supports long-term behavior change and successful reentry into the community.

6. Engage On-going Support in Natural Communities

In order for clients to maintain positive behavior change, a strong support system and meaningful connections within their natural communities (significant others, family members, mentors, employers, teachers, spiritual leaders, etc.) can help reinforce prosocial attitudes and enhance motivation to change. By engaging with people that already exhibit positive, law-abiding behaviors, clients are more likely to adopt these attitudes and are less likely to recidivate. 

7. Measure Relevant Processes and Practices

In order to determine if a client is making progress in their treatment, a formal way to measure their progress—such as decreases in technical violations or number of cognitive-behavioral therapy hours—is integral in determining if the interventions are working or if the client’s supervision plan needs to be adjusted. It’s also important that corrections officers and treatment staff are regularly evaluated to ensure that they are following the program criteria and supporting client success.

8. Provide Measurement Feedback

Once measurement processes are in place, providing routine feedback to clients regarding their progress encourages accountability and continued compliance in their program or treatment. Regular client case reviews also help corrections officers support the ultimate goal of reducing criminal recidivism. 

Next: Realizing the EBP Gap