Best Practices for Neglected Assumptions: Multi-Site Confirmation of the MPACT-6

In the assessment world, risk determines ?who? to treat and needs determine ?what? (Bonta & Andrews, 2016). Yet, for youth, greater emphasis is placed on needs that target recidivism reduction interventions. Unlike risk, needs represent dynamic domains, or latent constructs, requiring testing to...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Author: Mei, Xiaohan (Author)
Contributors: Hamilton, Zachary K. 1979- (Author) ; Kigerl, Alex ; Krushas, Amber ; Taxman, Faye S. 1955- (Author)
Format: Electronic Article
Language:English
Published: 2025
In: Crime & delinquency
Year: 2025, Volume: 71, Issue: 6/7, Pages: 2032-2060
Online Access: Volltext (lizenzpflichtig)
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Keywords:
Juvenile Justice
Measurement invariance
overclassification
risk-needs-assessment
Description
Summary:In the assessment world, risk determines ?who? to treat and needs determine ?what? (Bonta & Andrews, 2016). Yet, for youth, greater emphasis is placed on needs that target recidivism reduction interventions. Unlike risk, needs represent dynamic domains, or latent constructs, requiring testing to assure adequate measurement. We conducted a multi-level, multi-group analysis of the Modified Positive Achievement Change Tool (MPACT) with a 10-state sample of youth (N?=?258,464). Findings confirm the validity and reliability of needs domains, and the development of a novel ?Global Needs Factor,? a composite summary of needs. Created without criminal history/static measures, needs scales demonstrate predictive accuracy. Further, measurement invariance and aspects of gender and race/ethnicity prediction parity are observed.
ISSN:1552-387X
DOI:10.1177/00111287231180096