Policy implications, limitations, and ethical considerations of criminal offender classification models

Harriet B. Braiker

Expert InsightsPublished 1979

With the increasing number of people processed annually by the criminal justice system from arrest to parole supervision, classification models have important implications for maximizing the allocation of resources. Moreover, if such models have demonstrable reliability, validity, and low classification error, their application can increase equity in the system. This paper outlines potential application of classification strategies to prosecutorial policy, pretrial release decisions, sentencing guidelines, correctional placement, selection for diversion or prison rehabilitation efforts, and parole supervision. In spite of promises of increased equity and efficiency, classification approaches have serious practical limitations and should cause ethical concern. The author discusses the risks of prediction errors based on imperfect classification models. Psychologists have an obligation to differentiate basic research aimed at understanding criminal behavior from the practical application of empirical models.

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Braiker, Harriet B., Policy implications, limitations, and ethical considerations of criminal offender classification models. Santa Monica, CA: RAND Corporation, 1979. https://www.rand.org/pubs/papers/P6382.html.
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