The Level of Service Inventory—Revised (LSI-R) is a classification instrument used to identify the risks and needs of offenders. Originally validated for use with male offenders, some scholars have questioned the instrument’s suitability for use with female offenders. The current study attempts to contribute to the discussion on gender and the predictive validity of the LSI-R. A sample of 2,849 probationers and parolees were administered the LSI-R at two points in time. This design allows for the analysis of the instrument’s predictive validity at Time 1 and Time 2, and of the impact that changes in LSI-R scores may have on rates of recidivism. The results suggest that the LSI-R is a valid instrument for predicting recidivism with male and female offenders and thus should be viewed as a useful resource for practitioners engaged in correctional treatment.
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