Examining the Validity of a Juvenile Offending Risk Assessment Instrument Across Gender and Race/Ethnicity

Abstract

Analysis of predictive validity of the risk/needs assessment used by a criminal justice agency is paramount. The validity of the Positive Achievement Change Tool (PACT) across gender/race/ethnicity in a juvenile sample was examined. Results demonstrate recidivism increases as PACT score increases, with minor exceptions. Findings suggest similar prediction of referral/arrest and adjudication/conviction across subgroups. 95% confidence intervals overlapped for all subgroups on 13 of 19 measures examined. However, which factors predict recidivism across subgroups differ. Criminal history was the most prevalent predictor, while no factor predicted White female offending. “Gender-responsive” item inclusion measuring abusive/traumatic circumstances did not improve prediction.