Do Criminogenic Needs Matter in Non-Secure Settings? Assessing Change in Dynamic Risk Factors During Therapeutic Residential Care and the Association With Prediction and Recidivism

This study examined changes in dynamic risk factors during non-secure therapeutic residential care (TRC) and their association with recidivism among 313 at-risk adolescents in Norway. Risk was assessed using the Youth Level of Service/Case Management Inventory (YLS/CMI) at intake and post-treatment, and recidivism was tracked over a 1-year period after TRC. Significant reductions in YLS/CMI risk scores were observed during treatment, and both post-treatment and change scores were significant predictors of future justice system involvement. Overall, reductions in most dynamic domains were linked to lower odds of recidivism. These findings emphasize the importance of reassessing risk factors to monitor progress, enhance recidivism prediction, inform follow-up services, and highlight the value of addressing criminogenic needs during residential treatment.