Effective correctional treatment and violent reoffending: A meta-analysis

The clinically relevant and psychologically informed principles of human service, risk, need, and responsivity have received strong support within several meta-analytic reviews. Despite their widespread acceptance, however; no meta-analysis to date has examined whether the appropriate application of these principles within correctional treatment programs is associated with reduced levels of violent re-offending. This article provides an overview of the role that each of these principles played in reducing violent recidivism. Adherence to each of the four principles, received empirical support. although not to a statistically significant degree in the case of risk. In addition, a composite measure, reflecting adherence to the four principles revealed the greatest mean reduction in violent recidivism. The principles of effective correctional treatment are discussed as key elements that should be considered in developing effective correctional interventions for reducing violent recidivism.