The Impact of Different Supervision Practices in Community Corrections: Cause for Optimism

Abstract

Can community corrections programs or probation reduce the incidence of recidivism among offenders under supervision? This question continues to be controversial. Some of the more recent research indicates, however, that recidivism is likely to be reduced by as much as fifty percent if certain supervision practices are adopted. This research has found, among other things, that supervision characterised by a pro-social approach, the use of problem solving and the use of empathy, is related to lower recidivism. This study looks at these factors in community based corrections in Victoria. It finds that where supervisors make use of these supervision principles, client recidivism rates, as measured by breach rates and re-offending rates one year and four years after the start of supervision, are twenty five to fifty percent lower. The study also finds that the pro-social approach seems to have more impact than the use of problem solving or empathy.