RNR Training Series
Risk-Need-Responsivity (RNR) is a framework that draws from human service delivery and core clinical principles to guide the assessment, case management, and rehabilitation of persons involved in the justice system. RNR is built upon basic tenets that programs, services, and interventions delivered to people involved with the justice system should be: (1) Delivered with respect for the person, (2) Based upon psychological theory and empirical evidence, and (3) Sanctions alone are unlikely to produce reductions in offending behavior. Research demonstrates that reoffending outcomes can be improved when practitioners align programs and practices with three principles: Risk, Need, and Responsivity.
RNR: The Basics for Behavioral Health Providers
Designed for court clinicians and treatment providers working with Specialty Courts (e.g., Drug Courts, Veteran Treatment Courts), this course provides a basic introduction to RNR principles and practices including the meaning of risk levels, kinds of conditions that co-occur with substance use disorders and drive crime (i.e., criminogenic needs), and factors that affect access and engagement in treatment and rehabilitative programs.
Example Curriculum
- The Need Principle (1:50)
- Risk-Needs Assessment to Identify Dynamic Risk Factors (13:09)
- Download: Table 2. Dynamic Risk Factors Defined
- Download: MA Drug Court Participants' Dynamic Risk Factors for Recidivism
- Matching Services to Dynamic Risk Factors In Treatment Planning (10:12)
- Assignment 1: Taking Stock of Your Service Landscape - Part 1
- Assignment 2: Client Needs & Dynamic Risk Factor Service Availability
- Science Moment: Need Principle - The Evidence-Base