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Abstract: 

Although the evidence suggests that effect sizes are greater for correctional programming in the community than in prison, the community setting presents significant challenges regarding implementation and fidelity because there are many more groups providing services. The author discusses his Top 10 lessons for effective community corrections. These include, in reverse order of importance: (10) understanding public opinion; (9) using a risk scale; (8) translating psychobabble; (7) recognizing that corrections is an integrated system; (6) seeking incremental gains; (5) under-promising and over-delivering; (4) appreciating the importance of staff; (3) comparing, analyzing, and translating knowledge; (2) ensuring effective implementation; and (1) being an agent of change.

Keywords: Community corrections, evidence-based practice, risk assessment, change agents

Affiliations:  1: Carleton University.