The Relationship Between Patterns of Change in Dynamic Risk and Strength Scores and Reoffending for Men on Community Supervision

Abstract

Research is needed focusing on the predictive nature of dynamic risk and strength score changes. The current study includes 11,953 Canadian men under community supervision with Service Planning Instrument re-assessment data. Using a retrospective, multi-wave longitudinal design, hierarchical linear modeling (HLM) was conducted to assess patterns of change in total dynamic risk and strength scores across three to five timepoints over 30 months. Change parameters from the HLM were incorporated into regression models, linking change to three reoffending outcomes: technical violations, new charges, and new violent charges. Results indicated that total dynamic risk scores decreased over time and total dynamic strength scores increased over time, although the rate of change for both was gradual. Change in total dynamic risk scores was predictive of all outcomes, whereas change in total dynamic strength scores only predicted technical violations. Results demonstrated the utility of re-assessing dynamic risk and strength scores over time.