Designed
Specifically for Parolee Assessment or Screening
The Parolee Inventory (PI) is designed specifically for
parolee assessment or screening. The Parolee Inventory (PI) is an automated
(computer-scored) assessment instrument or test. This webpage describes the
Parolee Inventory (PI) and explains how it works. It discusses unique Parolee
Inventory (PI) features, explains Parolee Inventory (PI) scale interpretation
and presents an example PI report.
APPLICATIONS
* *
Parolee Inventory (PI) * *
Assessment of inmates being considered for parole.
Parolee (male and female) assessment.
Parolee intake and review.
Parolee violation review.
Some Parolee Inventory (PI) webpage visitors want to go directly to topics
that are of interest to them. Other visitors prefer to read the entire
webpage. The PI
Research link is the
only one in the table that takes you to another webpage. When you link
to another webpage, remember that clicking on the "Back" button (top left
corner of the webpage) takes you back to the webpage you just left.
Preface
The Prison Inmate Inventory
(PII) is used for inmate assessment and screening in prisons and
penitentiaries. Inmate screening for parole selection could be done with
the PII while the inmate is incarcerated. The Prison Inmate Inventory
(PII) is a different test designed for inmate assessment. To
review the PII webpage click in the
PII Test link. Both the PII and the Parole Inventory (PI) are listed in
the menu on the left side of this webpage. In prisons not using the PII,
the Parolee Inventory (PI) is recommended for parolee assessment.
The Parolee Inventory (PI) is designed
specifically for parolee assessment and screening. The PI provides meaningful
risk and needs information in an objective, standardized and timely manner. PI
reports are scored and printed on-site. The PI can be administered upon
parolee intake, at parole officer meetings, at violation review and at
scheduled (e.g., once a year) intervals. The PI has 135 items and takes 25
minutes to complete. The PI has eight measures (scales).
* *
PAROLEE INVENTORY (PI) * *
Eight PI Measures (Scales)
Truthfulness Scale
Distress Scale
Violence (Lethality) Scale
Alcohol Scale
Antisocial Scale
Drugs Scale
Self-Esteem Scale
Stress Coping Abilities Scale
The Truthfulness Scale identifies
denial, problem minimization and faking. The PI Truthfulness Scale is
reliable, valid and accurate. And, a truth correction equation converts raw
scores to Truth-Corrected scores. Truth-Corrected scores are more accurate
than raw scores. The Parolee Inventory (PI) and its many unique features are
discussed in this webpage.
The PI is to be used in conjunction with
a review of available records, parolee interview and experienced staff
judgment. The PI provides objective, standardized and accurate screening
information. The built-in PI database insures, at no additional cost, ongoing
research and annual testing program summaries. Ongoing research insures
quality control. Annual testing program summaries provide for program
self-evaluation. In brief, the PI incorporates both history and criminogenic
factors in its parolee assessment.
Why use the PI in parolee assessment? The reasons
are many and include objective, standardized, accurate and fair parolee
screening. Early problem identification facilitates positive intervention and
treatment. An effective parolee screening program enables problem prone
individuals to be helped, as opposed to waiting for them to fail. And, the PI
database permits cost efficient (no additional cost) research that can include
recidivism prediction.
The Parolee Inventory, or PI, is designed specifically for
parolee assessment or screening. The PI evaluates violence (lethality)
potential, assesses antisocial issues, quantifies substance (alcohol and
other drugs) abuse, screens self-esteem and distress while measuring stress
coping abilities. The PI has 135 items and takes 25 minutes to complete. The
PI has eight measures (scales): 1.
Truthfulness Scale,
2. Violence (Lethality) Scale,
3. Antisocial Scale,
4.
Self-Esteem Scale, 5. Distress Scale,
6. Alcohol Scale,
7. Drugs Scale and
8. Stress Coping Abilities Scale.
Eight Scales (Measures)
The eight Parolee Inventory (PI) scales
are described as follows:
1. Truthfulness Scale: Measures how truthful the
parolee was while completing the test. It identifies denial, minimization and
faking. This scale identifies faking good.
2. Violence (Lethality) Scale: Measures the use of
force to injure, damage or destroy. This scale identifies people that are a
danger to themselves and others.
3. Antisocial Scale: Measures antisocial attitudes
and behavior. It identifies people that are opposed to society and are
aggressive, irresponsible and destructive. Antisocial people are opposed to
existing social organization and moral codes.
4. Self-Esteem Scale: Measures a parolee's explicit
valuing and appraisal of self. Self-Esteem incorporates an attitude of
acceptance-approval versus rejection-disapproval.
5. Distress Scale: Measures pain (physical and
mental), agony and anguish. It assesses pain, worry, sorrow, discomfort and
distress. This definition of distress incorporates the parolee's chronic
anxiety, depression, pain and suffering.
6. Alcohol Scale: Measures alcohol use and severity of abuse.
Alcohol refers to beer, wine and other liquors. This scale measures the
severity of alcohol use or abuse while identifying alcohol-related
problems.
7. Drugs
Scale: Measures the severity of drug (marijuana, crack,
ice, LSD, cocaine, amphetamines, barbiturates and heroin) use and abuse while
identifying drug-related problems.
8. Stress Coping Abilities Scale: Measures the
parolee's ability to cope effectively with stress and pressure. Stress
exacerbates emotional and mental health symptomatology. This is a
non-introversive way to screen for the presence of diagnosable mental health
problems.
Parolee Inventory Test
Booklet
PI test booklets are provided free.
These booklets contain 135 items and are written at a 5th to 6th grade
reading level. If a person can read the newspaper, they can read the PI.
Questions are direct and easily understood. It takes 25 minutes, on average,
for parolees to complete the test. PI test booklets are available in both
English and Spanish.
Parolee Inventory Reports
In brief, PI reports summarize the
individual's self-reported court history, explain what attained scores mean
and offer specific score-related recommendations.
Within 2½ minutes from test data entry,
automated (computer-scored) 4-page reports are available on-site. These
reports summarize a wealth of information in an easily understood format. For
example, these reports include a PI profile (graph), which summarizes client
findings at a glance. Also included are explanations of what each score means
and specific score-related recommendations.
Significant items (direct admissions)
are highlighted, and answers to the built-in interview (last sequence of
multiple choice items) are presented. Emphasis has been placed on having
meaningful reports that are helpful and easily understood.
To go directly to the example PI report,
click on the PI Report link. After reviewing the
report, you can return to this section by clicking on the "Return to PI
Reports Section" link.
REPORT HIGHLIGHTS
* *
Parolee Inventory (PI) * *
Truthfulness Scale
Truth-Corrected Scores
Comprehensive 3-Page Report
Eight Measures (Scales)
Significant Items Highlighted
PI
Profile (Graph) of Results
ASAM Compatible Recommendations
Court-Related Information Summarized
Built-in Multiple Choice
Specific Score-Related Recommendations
Space Provided for Evaluator's Comments
"Objective and Accurate Parolee
Screening"
Advantages
of Screening
Screening or assessment instruments
filter out individuals with serious problems that may require referral for a
more comprehensive evaluation and/or treatment. The filtering system works as
follows:
PI RISK RANGES
Risk Category
Risk Range Percentile
Total Percentage
Low Risk
0 - 39%
39%
Medium Risk
40 - 69%
30%
Problem Risk
70 - 89%
20%
Severe Risk
90 - 100%
11%
Reference to the risk range table shows
that a problem is not identified until a scale score is at the 70th percentile or higher. This procedure is
eminently fair and avoids both extremes, i.e., over-identification and
under-identification of problems and risk.
A parole board or parole department's
policy might refer parolees with identified severe problems for further
evaluation, intervention or treatment. In this case, eleven percent (11%) of
the people screened (Severe Problem) would be referred. Or, policy might refer
clients with problems and severe problems (Problem Risk and Severe Problem)
for additional services. In these examples, 89% or 69% (contingent upon
adopted policy) of the people screened would not be referred for additional
services.
Budgetary savings (dollars) would be
large with no compromises in needy people receiving appropriate evaluation
and/or treatment services. Indeed, more needy people would receive help.
Without a screening program, there is usually more risk of over or
under-utilization of additional professional services.
PI scales identify the areas they
screen. And, these scales (measures) are: 1.
Truthfulness Scale,
2. Violence
(Lethality) Scale, 3.
Antisocial Scale,
4. Self-Esteem Scale,
5. Distress Scale, 6. Alcohol Scale, 7.
Drugs Scale and 8. Stress Coping Abilities Scale.
Parolee Inventory
Software
The PI is available in Windows format
test application diskettes. Windows diskettes require a simple one-time
computer setup procedure after which PI data diskettes are used. Training
manuals are provided free, and new test users can be walked through these
procedures over Risk & Needs' (Risk & Needs's) telephone line.
Proprietary PI diskettes contain 25 or
50 test applications. These 3½" diskettes score, interpret and print PI
reports on-site. Once a PI account is established, ordered diskettes are
mailed to users. When all test applications are used, diskettes are returned
to Risk & Needs where the test data and demographics are downloaded
into the PI database for subsequent research analysis. The proprietary "delete
names" program is activated by the test user with a few keystrokes to delete
all parolee names from the diskette before it is returned to Risk & Needs
. Deleting all test user (parolee) names insures parolee confidentiality and
compliance with HIPAA (federal regulation 45 C.F.R. 164.501).
Parolee Inventory Database
The PI system contains a proprietary
database. Earlier, it was noted that all PI used diskettes are returned to
Risk & Needs, and the test data along with related demographics are
downloaded into the PI database. This expanding database allows ongoing
research and testing program summary -- capabilities that were not possible
before. Ongoing research insures quality control. Test program summaries
provide program self-evaluation.
Built-in Database: Permits ongoing research and annual program
summary -- at no additional cost. When the 25 or 50 tests on a diskette are
used, that diskette is returned to Risk & Needs, checked for any viruses
and downloaded into the expanding PI database.
No personal information, names, social security
numbers, etc. are ever downloaded into any test database.
Advantages of a built-in database are
many and include database (research) analysis and annual summary reports.
Returned diskettes from an agency, department or court can be selected from
the database for research and analysis. The PI is restandardized annually on a
state-by-state basis at no additional cost to users. Database analysis insures
quality control. PI research can be reviewed by clicking on the PI Research link.
Similarly, returned diskettes can be
summarized on a state, department or agency basis -- at no additional cost to
users. Annual summary reports provide information for testing program
self-evaluation. An example report can be reviewed by clicking on the Annual Summary Report link.
After downloading test data returned diskettes are
destroyed.
In summary, having all used PI test data
centrally filed at Risk & Needs's offices in the PI database has many
advantages. Database analysis permits ongoing cost efficient research that
includes scale alpha coefficients, frequency distributions, correlations,
ANOVA, cross-tab statistics along with reliability, validity and accuracy
determinations. We continue to study the effects of demographics and are
undertaking recidivism prediction studies.
Annual Summary
Reports
Risk & Needs can access each
of its tests' built-in databases for statistical analysis and summarization of
all tests administered in a year. Annual Summary Reports are prepared
for state, department, agency and even some individual providers - - at no
cost to them. These reports are provided as a professional courtesy to
large volume test users. Summary reports include demographics,
court-history when relevant, and test statistics (reliability, validity and
accuracy). Has anyone offered to summarize your testing program?
Annually? At no additional cost to you? Minimum testing volume for
annual reports is 350 tests. There is no maximum limit. Risk &
Needs's annual reports range in size from 350 tests to over 55,000 tests
annually. An example Annual Summary Report can be viewed by
clicking on this Annual Summary Report link.
"Demonstrated Reliability, Validity and
Accuracy"
Reliability,
Validity and Accuracy
The PI has a built-in database that
insures inclusion of all tests administered in a confidential (no names)
manner. And, these reliability, validity and accuracy statistics are reported
in the document titled "PI: An Inventory of Scientific Findings." Annual
database analysis has revealed that PI scales maintain very high reliability
coefficients and minimum interscale correlations.
For example, the internal consistencies
(coefficient alphas) for PI scales are reported below for 1,141 inmates.
The PI: Inventory of Scientific Findings
is presented at the end of this webpage. To go directly to this
research, click on the PI Research link.
RELIABILITY OF THE PI (N=1,141,
2002)
PI
Scales
Coefficient Alpha
Significance Level
Truthfulness
.88
p<.001
Violence (Lethality)
.89
p<.001
Antisocial
.87
p<.001
Self-Esteem
.87
p<.001
Distress
.88
p<.001
Alcohol Scale
.90
p<.001
Drugs Scale
.91
p<.001
Stress
Coping Abilities
.91
p<.001
All PI scales have alpha coefficients
well above the professionally accepted standard of .75 and are highly
reliable. All coefficient alphas are significant at the p<.001 level.
Early PI studies used criterion measures
and were validated with other tests, e.g., Minnesota Multiphasic Personality
Inventory (MMPI) L and F-Scales, 16PF, SAQ-Adult Probation III,
Mortimer-Filkins, Offender Assessment Index, MacAndrews, Prison Inmate
Inventory, staff ratings, etc. Much of this research is summarized in the
document titled "PI: An Inventory of Scientific Findings." Subsequently,
discriminant validity (first versus multiple offenders) and predictive
validity (parolees that had substance treatment versus non-treatment) database
analysis are planned. And, as noted earlier, ongoing database research is done
to evaluate reliability, validity and accuracy.
Fairness goes beyond reliability and validity. The
term applies to test accuracy for demographic groups like age, gender and
ethnicity (race). The PI has been normed on Caucasians, Blacks and Hispanics.
The PI is an accurate and fair test. And, whenever possible, local parolee
samples are included in the PI database for ongoing analysis.
Staff Member Input
Some people advocate fully automated
assessment. Risk & Needs does not. The PI is to be used in conjunction
with experienced staff judgment. When available, court records should be
reviewed because they can contain important information not provided or
incorrectly provided by the parolee.
Experienced evaluators should also
interview the parolee. For these reasons, the following statement is contained
in each PI report: "Parolee Inventory (PI) results are confidential and should
be considered a working hypothesis. No diagnosis or decision should be based
solely upon these results. The PI is to be used in conjunction with
experienced staff judgment and review of available records."
Unique Parolee Inventory
Features
"Truthfulness Scale Identifies Denial and
Faking"
Truthfulness Scale: Identifies denial,
problem minimization and faking. It is now known that most parolees attempt to
minimize their problems to their parole officers. A Truthfulness Scale is a
necessary component in contemporary tests. The PI Truthfulness Scale has been
validated with the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory (MMPI),
polygraph exams, other tests, truthfulness studies and experienced staff
judgment. The PI Truthfulness Scale has been demonstrated to be reliable,
valid and accurate. In some respects, the PI Truthfulness Scale is similar to
the MMPI's L and F-Scales. It consists of a number of items that most people
agree or disagree with.
Truth-Corrected scores have proven to be very
important for assessment accuracy. This proprietary truth correction process
is comparable to the MMPI K-Scale correction. The PI Truthfulness Scale has
been correlated with the other seven scales. The Truth Correction equation
converts raw scores to Truth-Corrected scores. Truth-Corrected scores are more
accurate than raw scores. Raw scores reflect what the parolee wants you to
know. Truth-Corrected scores reveal what the parolee is trying to hide.
Violence (Lethality) Scale: Identifies people who
are a danger to themselves and others. Violence is defined as "the expression
of hostility and rage through physical force directed against persons or
property." It is aggression in the extreme and an unacceptable form of
behavior, which is why the term "lethality" is included in parentheses.
Measuring violence potential enables PI
users to identify people capable of harming themselves and others. Extremely
violent (lethal) individuals score at or above the 90th percentile on the Violence Scale, and these
people are dangerous. This is a very important, yet often overlooked, behavior
pattern when screening parolees.
Antisocial Scale: Measures the degree to which a
person is opposed to society or moral codes. Antisocial tendencies refer to
aggressive behavior that is either socially destructive or has socially
undesirable consequences. Antisocial behavior often incorporates aggressive,
impulsive and even violent actions that flout social and ethical codes, such
as laws. Antisocial behavior is characterized by a lack of judgment, a seeming
inability to learn from experience and what used to be called sociopathic
behavior.
"Comprehensive Parolee
Screening"
When a person manifests antisocial
tendencies, they are dangerous. When a person has both antisocial tendencies
with violence prone attitudes/behaviors, that person is particularly
dangerous. This important scale provides considerable insight into parolee
behavior, yet it is often overlooked by other screening tests.
Self-Esteem Scale: Measures the parolee's feelings of
self-acceptance and self-worth. Self-esteem incorporates an attitude of
acceptance - approval versus rejection - disapproval. Self-esteem refers to a
person's perception of self. The Self-Esteem Scale score represents the person
one believes oneself to be.
The concept of self-esteem has a wide
application in clinical settings. It is also a major construct in forensic
psychology, marital relationships and adjustment theory. Negative self-esteem
has been related to inmate maladjustment. On the other hand, extremely
positive self-esteem is often associated with narcissistic attitudes.
Distress Scale: Measures pain (mental and physical) and
suffering. The Distress Scale score varies directly with the parolee's
symptoms (e.g., physical and mental pain, anxiety, depression and suffering).
The definition of dysphoria shows the blending of distress symptomalogy, i.e.,
a general feeling of anxiety, depression and restlessness.
Distress sufferers are often initially
guarded in interpersonal relationships, but are responsive to sincerely caring
individuals. Extremely high scorers are often emotionally isolated and can
even be suicidal. The height of a person's Distress Scale score is important.
Severe Problem scorers can be desperate.
Stress Coping Abilities Scale: Measures how well the parolee handles
stress and pressure. How well a person manages stress can effect their
adjustment and mental health. We now know that stress exacerbates emotional
and mental health problems. This scale is a non-introversive way to screen
diagnosable or established mental health problems. A parolee scoring at or
above the 90th percentile on the Stress Coping
Abilities Scale should be referred to a certified or licensed mental health
practitioner for a diagnosis and treatment plan. This important area of
inquiry is missed by many other screening tests.
More than just
another alcohol or drug test. In addition to alcohol and drugs,
the PI assesses other important areas of inquiry like truthfulness, violence
(lethality) potential, antisocial tendencies, self-esteem, distress and
emotional/mental health problems. The PI is specifically designed for parolee
assessment. It provides the information needed for comprehensive parolee
screening.
Three
ways to give the PI. The PI can be administered in three different
ways: 1. Paper-pencil
test booklet format is the most popular testing procedure. PI English and
Spanish test booklets are available -- free. 2. Tests can be given directly on the computer
screen. Some departments dedicate computers for automated (computer-scored)
assessment. And,
3. Human voice
audio in English and Spanish computer presentation. This involves a headset.
The parolee uses the up - down arrow keys. As the parolee goes from question
to answer with the arrow keys, that question or answer is highlighted on the
monitor and read to the parolee.
These three administration modes are
discussed in the "PI: Orientation and Training Manual." Each test
administration mode has advantages and some limitations. Risk & Needs
offers these three testing modes so test users can select the mode that is
optimally suited to their needs. No other testing firm offers these three test
administration options -- let alone at no additional cost.
"Only the
Nominal Test Unit Fee"
PI Test
Unit Fee (Cost). To review PI cost click on the PI Test Unit Fee
(Cost) link. Don't be misled by other tests à la carte expenses
when they have separate fees for the test booklets, test
administrations, manuals, consulting services, staff training, summary
reports, research, etc. The PI is a very affordable test.
Reading Impaired Assessment.
Reading impaired clients represent 15 to 20+ percent of parolees tested. This
represents a serious problem to other tests. However, Risk & Needs has
developed an alternative for dealing with this problem, which is Human Voice
Audio.
Human Voice Audio. Presentation of the PI is in English and Spanish.
Parolees' passive vocabularies (what they hear) are often greater than their
active (spoken) vocabularies. Hearing items read out loud often helps reduce
cultural and communication problems. This Human Voice Audio test
administration requires earphones and simple instructions for operating the
up-down arrow keys on the computer keyboard. This innovative and proprietary
approach to resolving many parolee reading problems is not provided by other
parolee tests.
Confidentiality. Risk & Needs
encourages test users to delete parolee names from diskettes before they are
returned to Risk & Needs. This proprietary "name deletion" procedure
involves a few keystrokes and insures client confidentiality and compliance
with HIPAA (federal regulation 45 C.F.R. 164.501). Once parolees' names are
deleted, they are gone and cannot be retrieved. Deleting parolee names does
not delete demographics or test data, which is downloaded into the PI database
for subsequent analysis.
Test Data Input Verification. This proprietary program allows the person
that inputs test data from the answer sheet into the computer to verify the
accuracy of their data input. In brief, test data is input twice, and any
inconsistencies between the first and second data entries are highlighted
until corrected. When the first and second data entries match or are the same,
the staff person can continue.
This proprietary Test Data Input
Verification procedure is optional, yet it is strongly recommended by Risk
& Needs. Entering PI answer sheet responses into the computer only takes
around 60 seconds. Consequently, the Test Data Input Verification procedure is
done quickly.
Inventory of Scientific Findings. Much of the PI research has been
gathered together in a document titled "PI: An Inventory of Scientific
Findings." This document summarizes PI research chronologically -- as the
studies were completed. This chronological reporting format was established
largely because of the PI database, which permits annual database analysis of
all tests administered.
Some researchers would prefer the data
be reported by categories, e.g., all reliability studies and all validity
studies grouped. In contrast, the chronological presentation of PI research --
as it was done -- enables readers to follow the evolution of the PI into a
state-of-the-art parolee assessment or screening instrument.
Standardization. Representative parolee samples may not be truly
representative or accurate. To maximize accuracy, Risk & Needs
standardizes directly on each parolee population. Before charging for its
tests, Risk & Needs standardizes or norms the PI on the parolee population
that will be tested. This can usually be completed within one month. Norming
the PI on each parolee population helps insure accurate assessment. PI
standardization is free.
"Available in English and
Spanish"
Staff Training. Risk & Needs's staff
are available to participate in PI training conducted by statewide programs,
departments and high volume agency test users in the United States. Sometimes,
smaller volume providers get together for collective (multiple users) on-site
training. Risk & Needs typically participates in 4-hour or 6-hour training
sessions. This training can include hands-on computer scoring, as desired.
Attendees often receive continuing education credits (CEU's) for the time
involved. Risk & Needs gives attendees certificates attesting to their PI
training.
Staff training is also provided on
Fridays at Risk & Needs's Phoenix offices from 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. or
from 1:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. These training sessions are free. To participate,
contact Risk & Needs at least ten days in advance. Participation is on a
first call, first scheduled basis.
Why Select the
PI?
The Parolee Inventory (PI) meets and
exceeds most parolee screening criteria. The PI has been repeatedly
demonstrated to be reliable, valid and accurate. It measures many important
attitudes and behaviors missed by other parolee assessment procedures. Ongoing
research continues to study and, as warranted, adjust for demographics and
state-of-the-art psychometrics. The PI is designed specifically for parolee
assessment and screening.
The PI's eight scales measure
truthfulness and substance (alcohol and other drugs) abuse, assess violence
(lethality) potential along with antisocial tendencies, quantify self-esteem,
screen parolee distress and identify the presence of established mental health
problems.
The PI's built-in database facilitates
cost efficient database analysis and annual testing program reports. And,
these two unique features, ongoing database analysis and annual summary
reports, are provided free. A summary report can be reviewed by clicking on
the Annual Summary Report link.
PI reports are timely (available on-site
in 2½ minutes), readable and easy to understand. Score-related recommendations
are relevant and helpful. It is reasonable to conclude the PI is a
cutting-edge contemporary parolee assessment and screening instrument. And,
Risk & Needs doesn't stop there! The PI is very affordable
Selecting a
Parolee Screening Test
If you are selecting a parolee
assessment instrument, the following Comparison Checklist should prove
helpful. This checklist summarizes important assessment and screening
qualities. The "Other" column represents any other test you might want to
compare to the Parolee Inventory (PI).
TEST COMPARISON CHECKLIST
COMPARISON
CATEGORIES
PI
Other
Designed Specifically for Parolee Evaluation
Yes
Test Reliability & Validity Research Provided
Yes
In Addition, Normed on Your Parolees
Yes
Test Completed in 25 Minutes
Yes
Self-Report Saves Staff Time
Yes
On-Site Reports within 2½ Minutes
Yes
Truthfulness Scale Detects Faking
Yes
Truth-Corrected Scores for Accuracy
Yes
Three Test Administration
Options
Yes
1. Paper-Pencil (English and Spanish)
Yes
2. On Computer Screen (English and
Spanish)
Yes
3. Human
Voice Audio (English and Spanish)
Yes
Available in English and Spanish
Yes
Delete Parolee Names (Confidentiality) Procedure
Yes
HIPAA (federal
regulation) Compliant
Yes
Test Data Input Verification (Scoring Accuracy)
Yes
Built-in Database
Yes
Annual Database Research (Free)
Yes
Annual Test Program Summary (Free)
Yes
Violence (Lethality) Scale
Yes
Antisocial Scale
Yes
Self-Esteem Scale
Yes
Distress Scale
Yes
Alcohol Scale
Yes
Drugs Scale
Yes
Stress Coping Abilities Scale
Yes
Expanding Research Database
Yes
Available in MS-DOS and Windows
Yes
Easily Understood Reports
Yes
ASAM
Compatible Recommendations
Yes
Staff
Training (Free)
Yes
Examination
Kits (Free)
Yes
Very Affordable Test Unit Fee
Yes
"Scale
Interrelationships"
Parolee
Inventory Interpretation
An example 3-page Parolee Inventory (PI)
report follows this discussion of PI interpretation. It is provided as a ready
reference to augment this dialogue. There are several levels of PI
interpretation ranging from viewing the PI as a self-report to interpreting
scale elevations and scale inter-relationships.
The following table is a starting point
for interpreting PI scale scores.
PI RISK RANGES
Risk Category
Risk Range Percentile
Total Percentage
Low Risk
0 - 39%
39%
Medium Risk
40 - 69%
30%
Problem Risk
70 - 89%
20%
Severe Problem
90 - 100%
11%
A problem is not identified until a
scale score is at the 70th percentile or
higher. Elevated
scale scores refer to percentile
scores that are at or above the 70th
percentile. Severe problems are
identified by scale scores at or above the 90th percentile. Problem Risk scores represent twenty
percent (20%) of parolees screened. Severe Problem scores represent the
highest eleven percent (11%) of parolees screened. The procedure is fair and
avoids extremes, i.e., over-identification and under-identification of
problems and risk.
A department's policy might be to refer
parolees with severe problems for further evaluation, intervention or
treatment services. In this case, 11% of the parolees screened would be
referred for additional services. Or, policy might refer parolees with
identified problems for additional evaluation, intervention or treatment. In
that case, 31% of the parolees screened (Problem Risk and Severe Problem)
would be referred. In these examples, 89% or 69% (contingent upon adopted
policy) of the parolees screened would not be referred for additional (and
expensive) services.
Budgetary savings (dollars) would be large with no
compromises in clients receiving appropriate evaluation and/or treatment
services. Indeed, more
parolees would receive help. Without a screening program, there is usually
more risk of over or under-utilization of additional professional
services.
PI scales identify the areas they
screen. And, these scales (measures) include:
PI scale interpretation is important.
However, space does not allow a complete or in-depth discussion here. A rather
concise discussion of PI scale interpretation follows so that serious PI users
will understand the scope of multidimensional PI scale interpretation.
Scale Interpretation
1. Truthfulness Scale: Measures how truthful the
parolee was while completing the test. This scale identifies guarded and
defensive parolees who attempt to fake good. Scores at or below the 89th percentile mean that all PI scales are accurate.
Scale scores in the 70th to 89th percentile range are accurate because they have
been Truth-Corrected. Truthfulness Scale scores at or above the 90th percentile mean that all PI scales are
inaccurate (invalid) because the parolee was overly defensive, read things
into test items that aren't there, was attempting to minimize problems, or was
caught faking answers.
Parolees with reading impairments might
also score in this 90th to 100th percentile scoring range. If not consciously
deceptive, parolees with elevated Truthfulness Scale scores are uncooperative,
fail to understand test items or have a need to appear in a good light.
The Truthfulness Scale score is
important because it shows whether or not the parolee answered PI items
honestly. Truthfulness Scale scores at or below the 89th percentile indicate that all other PI scale
scores are accurate. One of the first things to check when reviewing a PI
report is the Truthfulness Scale score.
2. Violence (Lethality) Scale: Identifies parolees
that are dangerous to themselves and others. Violence is defined as the
expression of rage and hostility through physical force. Violence is
aggression in its most extreme and unacceptable form. Elevated scorers can be
demanding, sensitive to perceived criticism, and insightless about how they
express their anger and hostility. Severe Problem scorers should not be
ignored, as they are threatening and very dangerous.
A particularly unstable and perilous
situation involves an elevated Violence Scale with an elevated Antisocial,
Alcohol or Drugs Scale score. Antisocial attitudes can focus violent
tendencies externally on symbols of authority and control, e.g., federal
agencies, politicians or supervisors. Substance (alcohol and other drugs)
abuse can serve as a triggering mechanism. The more of these scales that are
elevated with the Violence Scale, the more dangerous the parolee becomes.
Similarly, an elevated Self-Esteem,
Distress or Stress Coping Abilities Scale score with an elevated Violence
Scale score can be problematic. Impaired self-esteem and/or an elevated
Distress Scale score can focus much of the parolee's violent tendencies
(anger, hostility, acting out) inward. In these situations, parolees may
become preoccupied with death, dying and suicide. Although scale elevations
can help in understanding the parolee, the height of these scale scores is
important. The more of these scale scores that are in the Severe Problem
(90th to 100th
percentile) range, the more violent and self-destructive the parolee becomes.
An elevated Stress Coping Abilities Scale score with an elevated Violence
Scale score can provide insight regarding co-deteminants and possible
intervention or treatment recommendations.
A Severe Problem Violence Scale score is
a malignant sign with or without other scale elevations and identifies a
potentially dangerous person. The Violence Scale score can be interpreted
independently or in combination with other PI scales. In multidimensional
scale interpretation, the height of each elevated scale can be important.
3. Antisocial Scale: Measures antisocial attitudes and behavior.
Antisocial is defined as opposed to society or existing social organization
and moral codes. Antisocial behavior refers to aggressive, impulsive and
sometimes violent actions that flout social and ethical codes, such as laws,
property rights, etc. This behavior pattern often begins with a conduct
disorder involving lying, stealing, fighting, cruelty, truancy, vandalism,
theft and substance abuse. Elevated Antisocial Scale scores are often
associated with non-internalization of recognized conventions. Many high
scorers manifest a seeming inability to profit from experience.
An elevated Antisocial Scale score in
conjunction with an elevated Alcohol Scale, Drugs Scale or Violence Scale
score would be a malignant sign prognostically. The higher these scores, the
more problematic the parolee becomes. Severe Problem Self-Esteem and Distress
Scale scores in combination with a Severe Problem Antisocial Scale score means
you have a very distressed, troubled or tormented parolee with antisocial
tendencies. Such individuals are full of risk and need help. Severe Problem
Antisocial and Stress Coping Abilities Scale scores suggest the possibility of
a suspicious or paranoid mental health problem. The Antisocial Scale can be
interpreted independently or in combination with other PI scales.
4. Alcohol Scale: Measures alcohol use and the
severity of abuse. Alcohol refers to beer, wine and other liquor. It is a
licit substance. An elevated (70th to 89th percentile) Alcohol Scale score is indicative of
an emerging drinking problem. An Alcohol Scale score in the Severe Problem
(90th to 100th
percentile) range identifies serious drinking problems.
Since a history of alcohol problems
(e.g., alcohol-related arrests) could result in a current non-drinker
attaining a Low to Medium Risk score, precautions have been built into the PI
to correctly identify "recovering alcoholics."
Several PI items are printed in the
"Significant Items" and in the "Multiple Choice" sections of the PI
report for quick reference as to the parolee's drinking status. These include:
#12 (admission), #22 (admission), #30 (admission), #124 (admission) and #125
(self-description). The alcohol recovering question is (#129) "I am a
recovering alcoholic." In addition, elevated Alcohol Scale paragraphs caution
that the parolee may be recovering.
Severe Problem Alcohol Scale scores can
exacerbate other scales' consequences. An alcoholic's alcohol consumption can
extensively interfere with their functioning. For example, denial
(Truthfulness Scale), suicidal ideation (Self-Esteem Scale and Distress
Scale), violence (Violence Scale), polysubstance abuse (Drugs or Alcohol
Scale), paranoia (Stress Coping Abilities Scale and Antisocial Scale), etc. An
elevated Alcohol Scale score can magnify the severity of other elevated scores
when the parolee drinks.
When both the Alcohol and Drugs Scales
are elevated, the higher score represents the parolee's substance of choice.
When both are in the Severe Problem range, polysubstance abuse is
indicated.
The Alcohol Scale can help staff work
through denial. Most parolees accept the objectively determined Alcohol Scale
score as accurate. This is especially true when it is compared to somebody's
subjective opinion. And, the parolee must answer a definite pattern of
alcohol-related admissions for an elevated score to occur.
The Alcohol Scale can also be
interpreted independently or in combination with other PI scales. A
Truthfulness Scale score at or below the 89th
percentile greatly increases confidence in Alcohol Scale score findings.
5. Drugs Scale: Measures drug use and the severity of
abuse. Drugs refer to illicit substances like marijuana, crack, cocaine, ice,
LSD, amphetamines, barbiturates and heroin. An elevated (70th to 89th
percentile) Drugs Scale score is indicative of an emerging drug problem. A
Drugs Scale score in the Severe Problem (90th
to 100th percentile) range identifies serious
illicit drug abusers.
A history of drug-related arrests could
result in an abstainer (drug history, but not presently using drugs) attaining
a Low to Medium Risk score. Consequently, precautions have been built into the
PI to correctly identify "recovering" drug abusers.
Several drug admission item responses
are printed in the "Significant Items" and "Multiple Choice" sections of
the PI report. For example, item #9 (admission), #35 (admission), #69
(admission) and item #124 (Admission) when answered deviantly represent drug
use admissions. Question #129 is a very direct drug recovery (I am a
recovering drug abuser) item. Item #127 obtains the parolee's self-description
of drug use, and item #135 identifies the number of drug treatment programs
attended.
Similar to the earlier Alcohol Scale
discussion, Severe Problem Drugs Scale scores can magnify the consequences of
other scales. For example, drug abuse can escalate antisocial thinking into
paranoia, magnify impaired self-esteem and distress into hurtful suicide
ideation, identify polysubstance abuse and contribute to drug-induced
psychopathology. An elevated Drugs Scale score can magnify the severity of
other scale scores when the parolee abuses drugs.
When both the Drugs and Alcohol Scales
are elevated, the higher score usually represents the parolee's substance of
choice. When both of these scale scores are in the Severe Problem range,
polysubstance abuse is indicated.
The Drugs Scale score can help staff
work through parolee denial. When it is explained that elevated scores do not
occur by chance but require a definite response pattern, many parolees accept
these objective and standardized assessment findings.
The Drugs Scale can be interpreted
independently or in combination with other PI scales. An elevated Violence
Scale in combination with an elevated Drugs Scale is a malignant sign because
violent tendencies can be exacerbated.
6. Self-Esteem Scale: Measures the parolee's feelings
of self-acceptance and self-worth. Self-esteem reflects a parolee's explicit
valuing and appraisal of self. Self-esteem incorporates an attitude of
acceptance - approval versus rejection - disapproval. Self-esteem refers to a
person's perception of self. The Self-Esteem Scale score represents the person
one believes oneself to be.
Negative self-esteem has been related to
maladjustment. The theory goes "the client sees themselves as bad or worthless
and acts accordingly." An elevated (70th to
89th percentile) range score reflects impaired
self-esteem. A pattern of self-rejection and disapproval is apparent. The
parolee has a poor self-perception. Sometimes, this is associated with guilt,
remorse or shame. A Severe Problem (90th to
100th percentile) Self-Esteem Scale score is
often characterized by shame, humiliation, uncertainty and even unbearable
worry. The parolee disapproves of himself or herself.
Elevated Violence, Distress and Stress
Coping Abilities Scales with the Self-Esteem Scale is problematic and could
represent suicidal or homicidal ideation. And, substance (alcohol and other
drugs) abuse can foster even more disapproval of self. The higher these scale
scores are, the more perilous and threatening the parolee's situation
becomes.
The Self-Esteem Scale can be interpreted
independently or in combination with other PI scales. Many professionals
believe that a person's behavior is a reflection of their self-esteem. The
concept of self-esteem is widely used in clinical settings.
7. Distress Scale: Measures experienced pain (physical and mental),
hurt and suffering. The Distress Scale provides a quantitative score that
varies directly with parolees' self-reported symptoms. This definition of
distress incorporates parolees' medical problems, pain and suffering as well
as people experiencing anxiety and depression. The interacting or blending of
these symptom clusters is evident in the definition of dysphoia, i.e., general
feeling of anxiety, restlessness and depression. Perceived distress is the
major reason people seek help or are referred for counseling or treatment.
An elevated (70th to 89th
percentile) Distress Scale score identifies parolees experiencing symptoms of
pain, suffering, anxiety and depression. A Distress Scale score in the Severe
Problem (90th to 100th percentile) range identifies parolees with
severe and established symptoms of distress.
Sometimes, elevated Alcohol and Drugs
Scales in conjunction with an elevated Distress Scale identify hurting
individuals that are attempting to self-medicate. Elevated Violence and
Distress Scales are problematic. The higher Severe Problem score can provide
insight regarding internalization (suicide) or externalization
(explosions/homicide) of frustration, hostility and distress. Severe Problem
Self-Esteem and Distress Scale scores indicate the parolee is on the verge of
being overwhelmed. This is a malignant prognostic sign. And, a Severe Problem
Stress Coping Abilities Scale score in conjunction with a Severe Problem
Distress Scale score suggests an established mental health problem exists. In
this case, a subsequent diagnosis will likely be of a neurotic (as opposed to
psychotic) nature.
The Distress Scale can be interpreted
independently or in combination with other PI scales. A person with a Severe
Problem Distress Scale score typically will readily discuss their feelings
with a sincerely interested, compassionate and supportive staff member.
8. Stress Coping Abilities Scale: Measures how well
the parolee copes or handles stress. Stress exacerbates symptoms of emotional
and mental health problems. Thus, an elevated Stress Coping Abilities Scale
score in conjunction with other elevated PI scales can help explain the
parolee's situation. When a parolee doesn't handle stress well, other existing
problems are often exacerbated. Such problem augmentation applies to all other
PI scales.
An elevated Stress Coping Abilities
Scale score can also exacerbate emotional and mental health symptomalogy. When
a Stress Coping Abilities Scale score is in the Severe Problem (90th to 100th
percentile) range, it is likely that the parolee has a diagnosable mental
health problem. In these instances, referral to a certified or licensed mental
health professional might be considered for a diagnosis and treatment plan.
Lower elevated scores suggest possible referral alternatives like stress
management training or counseling.
The Stress Coping Abilities Scale score
can be interpreted independently or in combination with other PI scales. The
Stress Coping Abilities Scale is much more than just a measure of experienced
stress. It measures how well the individual copes with stress. Two people can
be in the same stressful situation, yet one person can be overwhelmed while
the other person handles the stress well. The Stress Coping Abilities Scale
accounts for these highly individualized reactions to stress.
Epilogue
The Parolee Inventory (PI) is the
product of over 23 years of licensed psychologist experience evaluating
defendants, probationers, inmates, parolees and patients. These different
client groups mandate different assessment and screening priorities. And,
these assessment settings differ greatly. To accommodate these differences,
Risk & Needs has developed different tests for different client groups in
different environmental settings. For example, there is the Defendant
Questionnaire, SAQ-Adult Probation III, Prison Inmate Inventory, Parolee
Inventory, Victim Index and several other tests.
The alternative to specific tests for
specific client groups is transparent and depthless alcohol and drug tests
with a very limited scope. Test users want and need more than just alcohol or
drug information. Each Risk & Needs test includes multiple scales
(measures) to provide users with the information they want and need. For
example, the Parolee Inventory (PI) has 8 measures (scales).
Why use the PI
in parolee assessment? As stated in the preface, the reasons are
many and include objective, standardized, accurate and fair parolee screening.
Early problem identification facilitates positive intervention and treatment.
An effective parolee screening program enables problem prone individuals to be
helped, as opposed to waiting for them to fail. And, the PI database permits
cost efficient (no additional cost) annual summary reports and research.
* * * *
*
In conclusion, it was noted that there
are several "levels" of PI interpretation ranging from viewing the PI as a
self-report to interpreting scale elevations and interrelationships. Staff can
then put PI test report findings within the context of the parolee's life and
court situation.
For more information on how the PI
works, users are encouraged to read the "PI: Orientation and Training Manual."
Each scale's methodology is explained, unique as-sessment features are
discussed and more detailed information is presented. And, if you have any
questions, please contact Risk & Needs so we can help.
Within 2½ minutes of the test data
entry a PI test is scored, and its 3-page report is printed on-site.
Although PI reports have similar outlines or formats, each report is highly
individualized.
Additional information can be provided upon request by writing:
Risk & Needs Assessment, Inc. P.O. Box 44828 Phoenix, Arizona 85064-4828.
Our telephone number is (602) 234-3506
Our fax number is (602) 266-8227
and our e-mail address is
sheryl@riskandneeds.com.
