Changes in Probation Officer Behavior and Caseload Recidivism Following Training in Cognitive-Behavioral Techniques

Abstract

Implementation of risk-need-responsivity principles in probation has fostered the development of programs that train probation officers (POs) to directly address clients’ criminogenic needs during office visits. This study examined changes in PO office visit behavior and changes in caseload recidivism rates, following participation in the Forensic Cognitive-Behavioral Techniques (CB t) training program. Training was delivered to 39 POs over 10 sessions. PO behavior and skills were assessed using pre- and posttraining audio-recorded office visits. Coders blind to the pre/post nature of the recordings rated them on multiple variables across three domains: (1) Use of CB t, (2) Office Visit Content, and (3) Communication/Relationship Building skills. At posttraining, POs demonstrated increased use of CB t, greater focus on criminogenic needs, and improved communication skills. Overall, caseload recidivism rates declined posttraining. Despite challenges, training programs like Forensic CB t are associated with more skilled interactions during office visits and reductions in recidivism.