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Introduction
In this video critique, the focus will be on the documentary "The Released" (2009) and its
exploration of the challenges faced by individuals reintegrating into society after their release
from prison. The critique aims to analyze the documentary's depiction of key principles from the
Risk-Need-Responsivity (RNR) model and evaluate the effectiveness of the interventions
provided to support successful reentry. Within the RNR model's core principles, specifically
principles 4-12, the documentary highlights the relevance of principles 5, 8, and 11. By critically
examining the content of "The Released" considering the RNR model, the critique seeks to
assess the portrayal of the experiences of the released prisoners and its alignment with evidence-
based practices in criminal rehabilitation. Throughout the analysis, strengths and weaknesses of
the documentary's representation will be considered, offering insights into the complexities of
the criminal justice system and the challenges faced by former inmates seeking reformation
(Bonta & Andrews, 2016).
Video Critique
The three core principles selected for this video critique are Principle 5: Risk, Principle 8:
Specific Responsivity, and Principle 11: Structured Assessment. The motivation for their
selection is to examine their relevance to effective treatment and reducing recidivism, as well as
to assess their application in the documentary "The Released" (2009) and their alignment with
what has been learned about the Risk-Need-Responsivity (RNR) model and what works in
criminal rehabilitation.
Principle 5, the Risk principle, asserts the importance of matching the intensity of
treatment services with the risk level of individual cases. Higher-risk offenders require more
intensive services to reduce their likelihood of reoffending. However, it has been found that
focusing on motivated low-risk offenders can be more effective than dedicating significant
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resources to higher-risk individuals. In the documentary, Lynn Moore, who has a history of
mental illness and repeated arrests, would be considered a higher-risk individual. Despite the
potential for more intensive treatment, Moore's lack of motivation to stay on his medication
undermines the effectiveness of efforts to reduce his risk of recidivism (Frontline, 2009, 10:50).
Principle 8, Specific Responsivity, highlights the importance of tailoring interventions to
the specific needs, characteristics, and motivations of individual offenders. Factors such as
anxiety, verbal intelligence, cognitive maturity, and motivation influence the appropriate mode
and style of treatment. Motivation plays a crucial role, especially in addressing high-risk
offenders to ensure their engagement in treatment. William Stokes, another individual featured in
the documentary, had a history of non-compliance with medication and exhibited hostility and
violence. However, after his fourth arrest, his mindset changed, and he became highly motivated
to stay healthy and avoid jail. With the right intervention and increased motivation, Stokes
experienced a positive transformation and received the necessary support for his treatment
(Frontline, 2009, 26:42).
Principle 11, Structured Assessment, emphasizes the need to differentiate between low-risk
and high-risk cases to make informed decisions about appropriate interventions. This principle
aims to improve judgment and decision-making regarding treatment approaches. However, in the
documentary, Lynn Moore's case demonstrates a flaw in the structured assessment process.
Despite his significant progress and transition to a low-risk offender, Moore is not receiving the
support and assistance he needs to reintegrate into society. The attention of workers and
resources tends to be primarily focused on higher-risk cases, leaving low-risk offenders like
Moore struggling with homelessness and unemployment (Frontline, 2009, 32:50).
Conclusion
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The analysis of the Risk-Need-Responsivity (RNR) model's core principles in the context
of "The Released" (2009) provides valuable insights into the effectiveness of the interventions
portrayed in the documentary and their alignment with evidence-based practices in criminal
rehabilitation. The Risk principle highlights the importance of targeting higher-risk offenders but
emphasizes the need to consider an individual's motivation and willingness to engage in
treatment. This underscores the significance of Specific Responsivity, which emphasizes
tailoring interventions to an individual's unique needs and characteristics, as evidenced by
William Stokes' positive response to treatment when motivated.
However, the documentary also reveals a flaw in the application of the Structured
Assessment principle. Low-risk offenders like Lynn Moore can be overlooked, leading to a lack
of adequate support for their reintegration into society. This highlights the importance of
reassessing the implementation of structured assessment to ensure that all individuals, regardless
of their risk level, receive the necessary support and resources for successful rehabilitation.
Overall, this critique underscores the significance of considering multiple factors within
the RNR model when designing and implementing interventions for individuals involved in the
criminal justice system. By recognizing the importance of motivation, tailoring interventions to
individual needs, and addressing the limitations in structured assessment, criminal rehabilitation
programs can enhance their effectiveness and contribute to the reduction of recidivism rates.
Future interventions and policies should strive to integrate these principles into their practices,
ultimately leading to more successful reintegration and improved outcomes for individuals
transitioning from the criminal justice system back into society.
References
