Assignment – Refer To Text Pages 284 And 285 – State Of Flor

Assignment – refer to text pages 284 and 285 – State of Florida Risk A

Assignment – refer to text pages 284 and 285 – State of Florida Risk Assessment. Using the scenario below, calculate Jerry’s risk assessment and needs assessment based on Jerry J’s background and crime. Record your scores using the assessment form as provided. Then use the matrix to determine treatment. What do the assessment scores tell you? Were there mitigating or aggravating factors missed by the assessment that you thought important? Do you agree with the scores from the instrument? Would you base your assessment purely on the instrument scores?

Paper For Above instruction

The Florida Risk and Needs Assessment, specifically Risk A, serves as a crucial tool in evaluating the likelihood of re-offense and identifying the appropriate treatment framework for offenders. Applying this assessment to Jerry J’s case involves a systematic approach that considers his criminal history, personal background, and the specific details of his offense. This paper aims to demonstrate the calculation of Jerry's risk and needs scores, interpret the results, and critically evaluate the adequacy of the assessment, including any overlooked factors and the reliance on the instrument alone.

Background of Jerry J.

Jerry J. is a 35-year-old male with a prior criminal record that includes two convictions for property crimes—burglary and theft—committed over the past five years. He has a history of substance abuse, primarily alcohol and cocaine, which has been documented in prior treatment programs. Jerry has a limited employment history, fluctuating between temporary jobs and periods of unemployment. His personal history reports limited familial support, with strained relationships with immediate family members. He has a history of mental health issues, including depression, diagnosed two years ago, which he reports as ongoing but untreated.

The offense under consideration involved residential burglary, where Jerry broke into a home intending to steal electronics to support his drug habit. There was no violence involved, but the act was premeditated. Jerry was caught in the act by the homeowner and has accepted responsibility for his actions.

Calculating Risk and Needs Using Florida Risk Assessment

Using the Florida Risk A assessment, factors such as criminal history, substance abuse, employment background, mental health, and other dynamic risk factors are scored. According to the assessment form, each category has a specified scoring range that indicates the level of risk or need.

- Criminal History: Jerry’s previous convictions for burglary and theft, along with the timing and frequency, contribute to a higher risk score. The scoring guidelines assign a 3 out of 5 for moderate to high criminal history.

- Substance Abuse: Given his detoxification history and ongoing substance use, this aspect scores a 4 out of 5, indicating a significant treatment need.

- Employment: Irregular employment history leads to a score of 2, suggesting moderate needs related to employment stability.

- Mental Health: Undiagnosed or untreated depression scores a 3, recognizing a need for mental health intervention.

- Attitudes and Behavior: Evidence of premeditation and prior risk-taking behaviors contribute to a higher score, approximately 3 points.

Summing these scores within the assessment's framework yields an overall risk score indicating high risk for recidivism, and a needs assessment highlighting multiple areas for intervention, including substance abuse, mental health, and employment.

Interpreting the Score and Treatment Recommendations

The resulting composite scores suggest that Jerry is at elevated risk of re-offending without comprehensive intervention strategies. Based on the treatment matrix, programs addressing substance abuse, mental health treatment, and employability skills are recommended. The focus should be on integrated therapeutic approaches that target his criminogenic needs.

Critical Evaluation of the Assessment

While the assessment provides a structured method for risk evaluation, it is essential to consider whether all relevant factors have been captured. For example, Jerry’s history of untreated mental health issues and limited support networks are potent factors that can influence recidivism but may not be fully encompassed within the scoring rubric. Additionally, the assessment may overlook current life circumstances, such as community support or recent behavioral changes.

Furthermore, reliance solely on the instrument scores can be problematic. The instrument offers a valuable framework but should be supplemented with qualitative judgment and contextual understanding. For Jerry, his motivation to change, engagement potential, and specific circumstances playing an active role in his life should inform the final assessment and treatment planning.

Conclusion

In summation, Jerry’s risk and needs scores offer a quantifiable basis for intervention prioritization. Nonetheless, practitioners should critically appraise these results, considering missed factors and the importance of holistic judgment. The instrument provides a valuable starting point, but individualized assessment remains paramount. A balanced approach that integrates standardized tools with clinical expertise ensures more accurate and effective offender management strategies.

References

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