engleski

The experience of probation officers in the use of risk assessment for perpetrators of criminal offenses

This paper presents the results of the research conducted with probation officers in Croatia (N=10). The aim of the research was to get insight into the experience of probation officers in the implementation of Risk assessment Tool within their work with criminal offenders, and to identify the challenges faced by probation officers when using the Risk Assessment Tool. The method of data collection was a semi-structured interview. Data were analysed by qualitative data analysis. The research results show that, by experience of probation Officers, the Risk Assessment Tool for Perpetrators of Criminal Offenses serves as an important tool in dealing with perpetrators of criminal offenses. Probation officers use it as a guideline for work, but they recognize its specific shortcomings. In terms of challenges probation officers state that the Tool is insufficiently adapted to Croatian context, and that it is not applicable to certain categories of criminal offenses. Also, it requires the additional engagement of probation officers. They recognize a certain non-functionality of the Tool and the limitations that the deadline places upon their work. The proposals that the probation officers gave on how to improve the Risk Assessment Tool includes its simplification, standardization or validation of the Tool at the level of Probation system, and the need to increase the competencies of probation officers by obtaining more education, practicing supervisions and organizing workshops. They also propose certain changes in the way of scoring and in use of Risk Assessment Tool, as well as specifying a part of the Tool for certain categories of criminal offenses.

Risk Assessment Tool for Perpetrators of Criminal Offenses, probation officers, probation, Criminogenic Risk and Needs Assessment

nije evidentirano