Although Risk and Need Assessment Is Ideally Objective, Human Bias

question 68

Essay

Although risk and need assessment is ideally objective, human bias often comes into play. You are a judge who went to West Point and has respect for veterans. When a case comes before you of a drug-addicted offender with PTSD, your sympathies are with the defendant, although he could be a risk to society. What can be done to assure that your risk and need assessment are fair and just?

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Definitions:

Dominates

To have control or exert the greatest influence over a particular situation, area, or group.

Increasing Chances

Efforts made to enhance the likelihood of achieving a desired outcome or success.

Capabilities

The skills, resources, and abilities that an organization or individual possesses.

Demands

Requests or calls for something to be supplied or performed, often with a sense of urgency or necessity.