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Assessment of prison escape risk

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Abstract

The literature concerning assessment of escape probability in prison inmates appears to be somewhat contradictory: A variety of potential predicator variables have been studied with mixed results. Only four state correctional systems report using a formal risk assessment predictive procedure or instrument (Hinshaw, 1978). Traditional correctional criteria (e.g., length of sentence, violent crimes, sex crimes, etc.) have been found to be of limited, utility at best (Lane & Rans, 1982). Alternative predictor variables which have been examined inchide the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory (MMPI), juvenile history, employment history substance abuse patterns, and marital status.

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Shaffer, C.E., Bluoin, D. & Pettigrew, C.G. Assessment of prison escape risk. JPCP 1, 42–48 (1985). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02809199

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