Risk-need-responsivity model

The risk-needs-responsivity (RNR) model is used in criminology to develop recommendations for how prisoners should be assessed based on the risk they present, the programs or services they require, and the types of environments in which they should be placed in to reduce recidivism. It was first proposed in 1990^[1] based on the research conducted in the 1960s and 70s by Lee Sechrest, Ted Palmer, and other researchers on classifications of offender treatments.^[2] The model was primarily developed by Canadian researchers James Bonta, Donald A. Andrews, and Paul Gendreau.^[3] It is considered the best existing model for determining offender treatment, and some of the best risk-assessment tools used on offenders are based on it.^[4]

Core principles

According to the model, there are three main principles that should guide interventions for helping offenders reduce involvement in crime:^[4][5]

1. Risk principle: Offenders differ in their risk of recidivism, therefore different kinds of interventions are appropriate. Complex (and expensive) interventions may be unreasonable when the risk is low. On the other hand, for high-risk offenders intensive interventions are likely necessary to induce any kind of change.
2. Need principle: Every offender naturally has their own dynamic risk factors or criminogenic needs. When changed, they predict changes in reoffending rates. Therefore, interventions should target these individual needs for the best results.
3. Responsivity principle: Thirdly, different modes of intervention differ in their effectiveness of reducing recidivism. Generally, behavioural and cognitive-behavioural interventions are preferred. There is also an interaction with attributes of the offender: depending on e.g. age, gender, cognitive abilities or motivation different kinds of interventions are indicated.