Substance Abuse Questionnaire - Adult Probation III
Adult Probationer (male & female)
Assessment
The SAQ-Adult Probation III
is designed for adult (male and female) probationer assessment. It takes 30
minutes to complete and printed reports are available on-site in 2½ minutes. The
SAQ-Adult Probation III is used in many probation departments throughout the
U.S. and some Canadian territories. This test has been standardized on over
175,000 probationers. It is a popular test with proven reliability, validity and
accuracy.
APPLICATIONS
** SAQ-Adult Probation III **
Adult probationer (male & female)
assessment.
Adult
probationer (misdemeanor and felony) evaluation.
Probation departments and court-related assessment
settings.
Help
determine probationer risk, establish levels of probation and ascertain
needs.
Substance (alcohol and other drugs) abuse intake
screening.
Violence (Lethality) assessment.
Helps
in the identification of appropriate intervention, counseling and
treatment alternatives.
Description
The SAQ-Adult Probation III is an automated
(computer-scored) adult (male & female) assessment instrument or test. It
has 149 items and takes 30 minutes to complete. The SAQ-Adult Probation III
has 7 measures (scales): 1.Truthfulness Scale,
2.
Violence (Lethality) Scale,
3. Antisocial Scale, 4. Aggressiveness Scale, 5. Alcohol Scale, 6. Drugs Scale and 7. Stress Coping Abilities Scale. The
SAQ-Adult Probation III is used in many probation departments in the United
States. It has been standardized and normed on over 175,000 probationers and
is appropriate for misdemeanor and felony assessment.
The SAQ-Adult Probation III has 7 separate scales
(measures). These include:
Truthfulness
Scale:
Determines how honest the client was while completing the test. This
scale identifies defensiveness, problem minimization and faking.
Alcohol Scale:
Measures the severity of alcohol abuse and related problems. Alcohol refers
to beer, wine and other liquor. Alcohol is a legal or licit substance.
Drugs Scale:
Measures illicit drug use and related problems. Drugs refer to marijuana,
crack, cocaine, barbiturates, amphetamines and heroin. The Drugs Scale is
independent of the Alcohol Scale.
Violence (Lethality)
Scale: Measures the use of force to injure, damage or destroy.
It identifies people who are a danger to themselves or others. Violence
incorporates both physical and emotional abuse.
Antisocial Scale:
Measures aggressive, impulsive and sometimes violent behavior that opposes
society and moral codes. This behavior includes socially destructive and
antisocial acts characterized by a lack of responsibility, poor judgment and
impaired moral values.
Aggressiveness
Scale: Measures strong self-assertiveness, social dominance
and a tendency toward hostility. These individuals can be persistent and
verbally or physically assaultive. They typically lack empathy.
Stress Coping Abilities
Scale: Measures one's ability to cope effectively with
tension, stress and pressure. Stress exacerbates emotional and mental health
symptoms. This is a non-introversive way to screen the presence of serious
mental health problems.
More than just another alcohol or
drug test. In addition to alcohol and drugs, the SAQ-Adult
Probation III assesses other important areas of inquiry like truthfulness,
violence proneness, antisocial attitudes, aggressiveness and stress coping
abilities. This test is specifically designed for probationer (male and
female) assessment; consequently, it measures behaviors missed by other
test.
The SAQ-Adult Probation III measures attitudes and
behaviors that combine into a probationer profile. Paper-pencil test
administration takes 25 to 30 minutes, and tests are computer-scored on-site
with reports printed within 2½ minutes.
"Appropriate for misdemeanor and felony
assessment"
Test Booklet
SAQ-Adult Probation III test booklets and answer
sheets are provided free. These booklets contain 149 items (true/false and
multiple choice), which are written at a high 5th to 6th grade
level. If a person can read the newspaper, they can read the SAQ-Adult
Probation III. And, these test booklets are available in English and
Spanish.
Reports
In brief, SAQ-Adult Probation III reports summarize
the probationer's self-reported history, explain what attained scale scores
mean and contain specific score-related recommendations.
Within 2½ minutes of test data entry, automated
(computer-scored) 3-page reports are printed on-site. These reports summarize
a lot of information in an easily understood format. For example, these
reports include a scale profile (graph) that summarizes probationer findings
at a glance. Also included are attained scale scores, an explanation of what
each score means and specific score-related recommendations.
Significant items (direct admissions) are highlighted,
and answers to the last section of multiple
choice items are presented. Emphasis is placed on meaningful reports that are
helpful and easily understood.
To go directly to the example SAQ-Adult Probation III
report, click on the SAQ-Adult Probation III Report link.
After reviewing the report, you can return to this section by clicking on the
"Return to SAQ-Adult Probation III Reports Section" link.
Software
The SAQ-Adult Probation III is available in MS-DOS or
Windows format. DOS diskettes contain all their own software. Windows
diskettes require a one-time computer setup procedure after which SAQ-Adult
Probation III data diskettes are used. Training manuals are provided, and new
test users can be walked through these procedures over Risk & Needs
Assessment, Inc.'s (Risk & Needs) telephone line.
Proprietary SAQ-Adult Probation III diskettes contain
25 or 50 test applications. These 3½" data diskettes score, interpret and
print SAQ-Adult Probation III reports on-site. Once an SAQ-Adult Probation III
account is established, ordered diskettes are mailed to users. Ninety-eight
percent (98%) of orders are placed in the return mail within twenty-four
hours. When all test applications are used, diskettes are returned to Risk
& Needs where the test data and demographics are downloaded into the
SAQ-Adult Probation III database for subsequent research analysis. The
proprietary "delete names" program is activated by the test user with a few
keystrokes to delete all client names from diskettes before they are returned
to Risk & Needs. Deleting all client/probationer names insures client
confidentiality and compliance with HIPAA (federal regulation 45 C.F.R.
164.501).
SAQ-Adult Probation III Database
The SAQ-Adult Probation III system contains a
proprietary database. Earlier, it was noted that all SAQ-AP III used diskettes
are returned to Risk & Needs, and the test data along with related
demographics (e.g., age, gender, ethnicity, etc.) are downloaded into the
SAQ-Adult Probation III database. This database (over 175,000 SAQ-Adult
Probation III tests) 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.
"SAQ-Adult Probation III database contains over 175,000
tests"
Built-in Database
The SAQ-Adult Probation III permits
ongoing research and annual program summary -- at no additional cost. As
discussed earlier, 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 SAQ-Adult Probation III expanding database. This
proprietary database includes over 175,000 probationers' test data. Advantages
of a built-in database are many and include database (research) analysis and
annual summary reports.
No personal information, names, social security
numbers, etc. are ever downloaded into any test database.
Returned SAQ-Adult Probation III
diskettes from a probation department, court or agency can be selected from
the database for research and analysis. The SAQ-Adult Probation III is
restandardized annually on a probation department by probation department
basis -- at no cost to users. Database analysis insures quality control.
After downloading test data returned diskettes are
destroyed.
Similarly, returned diskettes can be summarized on a
state, probation deparrtment or agency basis -- at no additional cost to
users. This provides users with a 12-month testing program self-report. To
review an Annual Summary Report, click on the Summary Report link.
In summary, having all used SAQ-Adult Probation III
test data centrally filed at Risk & Needs' offices 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. To review a research study, click on the SAQ-Adult Probation III Research
Study link.
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 Assessment' 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.
Research
Reliability, validity and
accuracy. The SAQ-Adult Probation III has a built-in database
that insures inclusion of all tests administered in a confidential (no names)
manner. Over 175,000 probationers' test data are represented in the SAQ-Adult
Probation III database. And, these reliability, validity and accuracy
statistics are reported in the document titled "SAQ: An Inventory of
Scientific Findings." Annual database analysis has shown that SAQ-Adult
Probation III scales maintain very high reliability coefficients and minimum
interscale correlations.
For example, the internal consistencies (coefficient
alphas) for SAQ-Adult Probation III scales are reported for 3,484 probationers
screened in the year 2000. This is only one among several year 2000 samples
(or studies).
SAQ-Adult Probation III reliability, validity and
accuracy are reported in the "SAQ-Adult Probation III: Normative Study"
research study (11-16-02). This research is presented at the end of this
webpage. Interested parties can go directly to this study by clicking on the
SAQ-Adult Probation III:
Normative Study link.
RELIABILITY OF THE
SAQ-AP III (N=3,484, 2000)
SAQ-AP III Scales
Coefficient Alpha
Significance Level
Truthfulness
.88
p<.001
Violence
.85
p<.001
Antisocial
.86
p<.001
Aggressiveness
.86
p<.001
Alcohol
.94
p<.001
Drugs
.92
p<.001
Stress
Coping Abilities
.92
p<.001
All SAQ-Adult Probation III scales have alpha
coefficients well above the professionally accepted standard of .75 and are
highly reliable. All of these coefficient alphas are significant at the
p<.001 level.
SAQ-Adult Probation III research extends over 17
years. Many studies have been conducted on thousands (not just hundreds) of
probationers using several validation methods. Early studies used criterion
measures and were validated with many other tests, e.g., Minnesota Multiphasic
Personality Inventory (MMPI) L-Scale, MMPI F-Scale, Prison Inmate Inventory,
Defendant Questionnaire, 16PF, MMPI Psychopathic Deviate Scale, polygraph
examination, MMPI Anxiety Scale, MAS (Taylor Manifest Anxiety) Scale, TSC-VII
(Tension, Worry) Scale, etc. Much of this research is summarized in the
document titled "SAQ: An Inventory of Scientific Findings." Subsequently, many
discriminant validity and predictive validity (treatment versus non-treatment)
database studies support SAQ-Adult Probation III reliability, validity and
accuracy. SAQ-Adult Probation III norms are updated annually for each SAQ-AP
III scale. Separate norms are available for gender (male and female),
ethnicity (Caucasian, Black, Hispanic), geographic (state-by-state) regions,
etc.
Research Publication:
Nebraska Probation Department's Intensive Supervision Probation (ISP)
selection process was automated with Risk & Needs Assessment tests. These tests
include the Driver Risk Inventory-II, SAQ-Adult Probation III, Domestic
Violence Inventory and the ACDI-Corrections Version II. This research is
reported in Edward C. Birkel and David L. Wegner's article (2000). "Accurate
Intensive Supervision Probation Selection: Revisited." American Probation and
Parole Association, Perspectives, Vol. 24, #4 Fall, pp. 18-21. To read this
article click on the Perspectives Research Article
link.
Fairness: SAQ-Adult
Probation III research goes beyond reliability and validity. Fairness
incorporates demographic groups (age, gender, ethnicity). This
fairness/demographic research is ongoing in nature. SAQ-Adult Probation III
scale scoring equations are adjusted, as warranted, on an annual basis to
insure fairness.
Staff Member Input:
Some people advocate fully automated assessment. Risk & Needs does not.
The SAQ-Adult Probation III is to be used in conjunction with experienced
staff judgment. When available, court and probation records should be reviewed
because they can contain important information not provided or incorrectly
provided by the probationer. Experienced staff should also interview the
client. For these reasons, the following statement is contained on each
SAQ-Adult Probation III report: "SAQ-Adult Probation III results are
confidential and are working hypotheses. No diagnosis or decision should be
based solely upon these results. These test results are to be used in
conjunction with experienced staff judgment and review of available
records."
Unique Features
Truthfulness
Scale: Identifies denial, problem minimization and
faking. It is now clear that many probationers attempt to minimize their
problems. A Truthfulness Scale is now a necessary component in contemporary
probationer tests. The SAQ-Adult Probation III Truthfulness Scale has been
validated with the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory (MMPI),
polygraph exams, other tests, experienced staff judgment and truthfulness
studies. The Truthfulness Scale has been demonstrated to be reliable, valid
and accurate. In some respects, the SAQ-Adult Probation III 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. The proprietary truth
correction program is comparable to the MMPI K-Scale correction. The SAQ-Adult
Probation III Truthfulness Scale has been correlated with the 6 other scales.
The Truth Correction equation then converts raw scores to Truth-Corrected
scores. Truth-Corrected scores are more accurate than raw scores. Raw scores
reflect what the client wants you to know. Truth-Corrected scores reveal what
the client is trying to hide.
Violence (Lethality)
Scale: Boils
down to identifying 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 an extreme and
unacceptable form, which is why Risk & Needs includes the term "lethality"
in parentheses. Measuring violence enables SAQ-Adult Probation III users to
identify people capable of harming themselves and others. Extremely violent
(lethal) individuals score at or above the 90th percentile on the Violence (Lethality) Scale,
and these people are dangerous. This is a very important, yet often
overlooked, behavior pattern.
"A
Violence (Lethality) Scale and Antisocial
Scale"
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. When a person
manifests antisocial tendencies, they are dangerous. When a person has
antisocial tendencies along with violence prone attitudes/behaviors, that
person is particularly dangerous.
Aggressiveness Scale:
Aggressiveness is often defined in terms of punitive behavior. And, we are
familiar with the aggressive-frustration hypothesis that postulates aggressive
behavior is largely a response to frustration. The Aggressiveness Scale refers
to a person's ranking on an outgoing to assaultive behavior scale. High Risk
scores on the Aggressiveness Scale manifest strong self-assertiveness, social
dominance and a tendency toward hostility.
Stress Coping Abilities
Scale: Measures how well the probationer handles stress, tension
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 established
(diagnosable) mental health problems. A probationer scoring at or above the
90th percentile on the Stress Coping Abilities
Scale should be referred for a more comprehensive evaluation and diagnosis.
This important area of inquiry is missed by other probationer screening
tests.
More than just another alcohol or drug
test. In
addition to alcohol and drugs, the SAQ-Adult Probation III assesses other
important areas of inquiry like truthfulness, denial and faking, violence
(lethality) proneness, antisocial attitudes, aggressiveness and stress coping
abilities. The SAQ-Adult Probation III is specifically designed for
probationer assessment. It provides the information needed for understanding
probationer attitudes and behavior.
Three ways to give the SAQ-Adult
Probation III. The SAQ-Adult Probation III can be administered
in three different ways: 1. Paper-pencil test
booklet format is the most popular testing procedure. SAQ-Adult Probation III
English and Spanish test booklets are available. 2. SAQ-Adult Probation III tests can be
given directly on the computer screen. Some probation departments dedicate
computers for SAQ-Adult Probation III testing. 3.
Human voice audio in English and Spanish. This approach involves a
computer, a headset and the probationer uses the up-down arrow keys. As the
client goes from question to answer with the arrow keys, each question and
answer is highlighted on the monitor (screen) and simultaneously read to the
client. The three administration modes are discussed in the " SAQ-Adult
Probation III: Orientation and Training Manual." Each test administration mode
has advantages and some limitations. Risk & Needs Assessment offers these three
testing modes so test users can select the administration mode that is
optimally suited to their needs.
Reading Impaired
Assessment. Reading impaired probationers represent 20+ percent
of probationers tested. This represents a serious problem to many other
probationer tests. In contrast, Risk & Needs has developed an alternative
for dealing with this problem, i.e., a short form of the SAQ-Adult Probation
III and "human voice audio."
"'Human voice audio' for the
reading impaired"
Human Voice Audio
presentation of the SAQ-Adult Probation III in English and Spanish helps
overcome many reading and cultural difference issues. A probationer's passive
vocabulary is often greater than their active (or spoken) vocabulary. Hearing
items read out loud often helps reduce both cultural and communication
problems. This human voice audio administration requires a computer, earphones
and simple instructions regarding how to operate the up-down arrow keys on the
computer keyboard.
SAQ-Short Form
As many as 20% or more of adult probationers are
reading impaired. The SAQ-Short Form is for use with the reading impaired. It
is also used in high volume testing programs. The SAQ-Short Form is a 64-item
assessment instrument or test that can be completed in 10 to 15 minutes. It is
written at a 5th grade reading level. Upon
completion, a one-page report is available on-site within 2 minutes. To visit
the SAQ-Short Form webpage, click on the SAQ-Short Form link. This link is also
provided at the end of this webpage.
SHORT FORM SCALES (MEASURES)
Truthfulness Scale:
Identifies guarded and defensive clients. It identifies faking.
Alcohol Scale:
Measures the severity of alcohol use and abuse. Alcohol refers to beer, wine
and other liquors.
Drugs Scale:
Measures the severity of illicit drug use. Drugs refer to marijuana, crack,
cocaine, amphetamines, barbiturates and heroin.
Risk Scale: Measures
the extent to which the respondent is a danger to self or others. This scale
identifies problem-prone individuals.
SAQ-Short Form Scale
Correlations
SAQ-Short Form scale scores are highly correlated with
SAQ-Adult Probation III scores. A high correlation coefficient between the
Short Form and the standard form means that there is a high degree of
relationship between the two forms. Correlation coefficients vary from zero to
1, where zero correlation means there is no relationship, and 1 means that two
variables are perfectly related. Correlation coefficients between the
SAQ-Short Form and SAQ-Adult Probation III are very close to perfect
correlation.
Pearson Product-Moment Correlation Coefficients
Between SAQ-Short Form Scale Scores and SAQ-Adult
Probation III Scale Scores
Scales:
Truthfulness
Alcohol
Drugs
Risk
Correlation Coefficient
.98
.99
.98
.93
These results show that SAQ-Short Form scale scores
are highly correlated with SAQ-Adult Probation III scale scores. A high
correlation coefficient means that there is a high degree of relatedness
between the two forms. In the above table, SAQ-Short Form scale items were
correlated against the SAQ-Adult Probation III scales in this sample of
SAQ-Adult Probation III data. SAQ-Short Form scales are subsets of SAQ-Adult
Probation III scales (same or similar items are in both tests) and they are
shown to be highly correlated with the SAQ-Adult Probation III scales. Along
with having fewer items per scale the SAQ-Short Form Risk Scale is a short
combination of SAQ-Adult Probation III Violence Scale, Antisocial Scale and
Aggressiveness Scale test items. Also, the Stress Coping Abilities Scale is
not included in the SAQ-Short Form. For adult offender assessment, test users
now have a choice: SAQ-Adult Probation III or SAQ-Short Form.
Validity analyses confirm that the SAQ-Short Form
measures what it purports to measure. These findings are reported in
"SAQ-Short Form Reliability and Validity in a Large Sample of Adult Offenders
(N = 7,986) Studied in the Year 2002." To go directly to this research study,
click on the SAQ-Short Form Research Study
link.
Confidentiality: Risk & Needs encourages
test users to delete probationers' names from diskettes before they are
returned to Risk & Needs Assessment, Inc. Once probationer names are
deleted, they are gone and cannot be retrieved. Deleting probationer names
does not delete demographics or test data, which is downloaded into the
SAQ-Adult Probation III database for subsequent analysis. 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).
Test Data Input
Verification 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, staff can continue. This proprietary Test
Data Input Verification procedure is optional, yet it is strongly recommended
by Risk & Needs.
"Provides a sound empirical basis for decisions"
Inventory of Scientific
Findings: Much of the SAQ-Adult Probation III research has been
gathered together in one document titled "SAQ: An Inventory of Scientific
Findings." This document summarizes SAQ-Adult Probation III research
chronologically - as the studies were completed. This innovative chronological
reporting format was established largely because of the SAQ-Adult Probation
III database, which permits annual database analysis of all tests
administered. It also allows the reader to observe the evolution of the
SAQ-Adult Probation III into its current state-of-the-art position. You can go
directly to an SAQ-Adult Probation III research study by clicking on the SAQ-Adult Probation III Research
Study link. This link is provided at the end of this webpage.
Staff Training: Risk
& Needs' staff is available to participate in SAQ-Adult Probation III
training programs conducted by probation departments, courts and assessment
agencies in the United States. Risk & Needs typically participates in
4-hour or 6-hour SAQ-AP III training sessions. This training can include
hands-on computer scoring, as desired. Risk & Needs gives attendees
certificates attesting to their training.
Staff training is also provided on Fridays at Risk
& Needs' 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.
"More
than just another alcohol or drug test"
Why Select the SAQ-Adult Probation III?
The SAQ-Adult Probation III meets and exceeds most
probationer screening criteria. It is endorsed by users and is widely used in
the United States. There are over 175,000 probationers' SAQ-Adult Probation
III test data in the SAQ-Adult Probation III database. The SAQ-Adult Probation
III has been repeatedly demonstrated to be reliable, valid and accurate.
Ongoing research continues to study and adjust for demographics like age,
gender and ethnicity (race).
The SAQ-Adult Probation III's seven scales measure
truthfulness, quantify alcohol and drug abuse, assess violence (lethality)
propensity, examine antisocial attitudes while measuring aggressiveness and
stress coping abilities. Screening stress coping abilities allows
non-introversive identification of the presence of established emotional and
mental health problems.
The SAQ-Adult Probation III's built-in database
facilitates cost efficient database analysis and annual testing program
summary reports. These two unique features -- ongoing database analysis and
annual summary reports -- are provided free.
Edward C. Birkel's article "Accurate Intensive
Supervision Probation Selection: Revisited" (Perspectives, Volume 24, November
4, Fall 2000) discusses the use of the SAQ-Adult Probation III in the
selection of probationers for intensive supervision probation (ISP). "The
results of this study demonstrate that accurate ISP offender selections can be
achieved through the combined use of criminal history information and
behavioral factors from offender assessment instruments or tests." The tests
used in this study are: SAQ-Adult Probation III, Driver Risk Inventory-II,
ACDI-Corrections Version II (juvenile test), and the Domestic Violence
Inventory. All of these tests are provided by Risk & Needs. To review this
article, click on the Perspectives Article link.
Probationers' SAQ-Adult Probation III reports are
timely (available on-site in 2½ minutes), readable and easy to understand.
Score-related recommendations are relevant. It's reasonable to conclude the
SAQ-Adult Probation III is the state-of-the-art in contemporary probationer
assessment and screening. And, Risk & Needs doesn't stop there! The
SAQ-Adult Probation III is very affordable. Click on the SAQ-Adult Probation
III Test Unit Fee
(Cost) link to review costs. This link is also available at the end of
this webpage.
"State-of-the-art probationer
assessment"
How the System Works
Interested parties (individuals, groups, agencies or
departments) establish their one-page Risk & Needs license. At that time,
their test unit fee is established. Volume discounts are honored. Licensed
parties are then provided test-related materials (test booklets, training
manuals, diskettes, etc.). Risk & Needs Assessment' staff are available to walk
new users through their initial computer scoring procedure. Support services
are then provided on an as needed basis.
Orders are accepted by telephone, e-mail, fax or mail.
Ninety-eight percent of all orders are placed in return mail the same day the
order was received.
SAQ-Adult Probation III diskettes contain 25 or 50
tests and all of the software needed to run on PC's. Scoring, data
interpretation and printing of reports are done by the computer. Computer
scoring eliminates tedious, time consuming and error prone hand scoring.
Indeed, staff report writing, substantiation of decisions and record keeping
needs are met. It takes 30 minutes to complete the SAQ-Adult Probation III,
and reports are available on-site within 2½ minutes.
Each diskette has a counter that tells you what test
you are using. When all tests on a diskette are used, that diskette is
returned to Risk & Needs. Test data is then downloaded into the SAQ-Adult
Probation III database for future analysis.
Advantages of Screening
Screening or assessment instruments filter out
individuals with serious problems that may require referral for a more
comprehensive evaluation (psychiatric or psychological) and/or treatment. For
example:
SAQ-ADULT PROBATION
III 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%
Reference to the above risk range table shows that a
problem is not identified until a scale score is at the 70th percentile or higher. And, these risk range
percentiles are based upon the thousands of probationers and defendants that
have taken the SAQ-Adult Probation III. This procedure is eminently fair, and
it avoids both extremes, i.e., over-identification and under-identification of
problems and risk.
A department, court or agency's policy might refer
clients with identified problems for further evaluation, intervention or
treatment. In this case, 31% of the people screened (Problem Risk and Severe
Problem) would be referred. Or, policy might only refer clients with serious
problems (Severe Problem, 11%) for additional services. In these examples, 69%
or 89% (contingent upon adopted policy) of the people screened would not be
referred for additional (and expensive) 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 much more risk of
over or under-utilization of additional professional services.
The SAQ-Adult Probation III scales identify the areas
they screen. And, these scales (measures) are: 1. Truthfulness Scale, 2.
Alcohol Scale, 3. Drugs Scale, 4. Violence (Lethality) Scale, 5. Antisocial Scale, 6. Aggressiveness Scale, and 7. Stress Coping Abilities Scale.
"Affordable & volume discounts are available"
"What users are
saying..."
"I continue to be impressed with the Substance
Abuse Questionnaire (SAQ) after years of using it."
Conway Group, Inc., Arizona
"The SAQ-Adult Probation has
enhanced our ability to make informed case management decisions in a
timely manner . . . Members of our judiciary and public prosecution are
now familiar with this test and in some instances have requested
assessments prior to sentencing."
Nova Scotia, Dept. of Justice, Corrections Services
"The Substance Abuse Questionnaire
has strengthened our individual assessment process and is providing us
with a valuable comprehensive database for planning purposes."
MO
Dept. of Corrections Offender Rehabilitation
Services
"We are a three-site outpatient
facility that deals with the court systems from six different counties . .
. The SAQ-Adult Probation has shown itself to be very valid."
CRW Associates, Bay City, Michigan
"This court maintains a sizable case
load of felony diversion cases . . . The SAQ-Adult Probation is invaluable
to the Diversion Program and is recommended to all felony project
counselors."
City of
Hunstville, Municipal Court
"May this missive serve to apprise
you of our satisfaction with Substance Abuse Questionnaire (SAQ) . . . The
SAQ has proved superior in information provided and format when com-pared
to other screening instruments."
Brazos County, Texas
Adult Probation Dept.
"In a criminal justice agency
documentation of objective criteria in formulating assessment and
classification of risk levels is of critical importance for all client
records . . . The SAQ-Adult Probation III has proven highly successful in
accuracy and reliability for classification."
City of Phoenix, Municipal Court Criminal Division
"The Substance Abuse unit of
District VI Probation and Parole of the Oklahoma Department of Corrections
has utilized the Substance Abuse Questionnaire . . . We have been
extremely satisfied with the results of this instrument."
Oklahoma Department of Corrections
"The Substance Abuse Questionnaire
is one of the most psychometrically sound and useful evaluation
instruments for substance abuse screening, assessment, and evaluation
presently available."
Licensed Clinical Psychologist, Arizona
"The Nebraska Probation System is
pleased with the SAQ-Adult Probation III's results . . . The Omaha and
Lincoln county courts are high volume courts . . . Some advantages of the
SAQ-Adult Probation III are: it reduces the amount of staff time, the risk
percentile on each scale is automatically calculated, reports are easy to
review, understand and interpret plus an expanding database is available .
. . Please accept this letter as a vote of confidence."
Supreme Court of Nebraska, Administrative Office of the Courts/Probation
"Prior to selecting the SAQ-Adult Probation III
for use in our program we conducted an exhaustive review of all available
tests . . . I am very pleased that we selected the SAQ-Adult Probation
III."
TASC, Ohio
"We successfully piloted the
Substance Abuse Questionnaire and staff response was overwhelmingly
positive. Ninety-six percent of survey responses indicated the SAQ was a
useful tool. The aforementioned results were often supported through
written commentary from staff. A sample is provided: . . . An excellent
report, very accurate . . . Useful assessment, especially in the area of
aggression and stress . . . Provides a strong base for intervention . . .
Moreover, SAQ reports provide valuable information regarding
treatment/supervision intervention and the degree of risk presented by the
offender."
Nova Scotia, Dept. of Solicitor General
"I am very satisfied with the service we have
received from Risk & Needs, Inc. and highly recommend them to any
other agency."
City of Los Vegas, New Mexico, Police
Department
Test Unit Fee (Cost):
SAQ-Adult Probation III cost information can be reviewed by clicking on the Test Unit Fee (Cost) link. There is only the one
cost or charge, and that is the test unit fee. Everything else is included at
no additional cost to the test user. This includes test booklets, answer
sheets, training manuals, upgrades, ongoing database research, annual summary
testing reports, staff training, and support services. Do not be misled by
some test publishers' à la carte pricing like separate costs for each test
administration as well as for each of the test-related items listed above.
Instead of asking for the test administration cost, ask for the total cost
involved in using a test. We believe Risk & Needs' one test unit fee is
very affordable.
Free
Examination Kit
A 1-test demonstration diskette is available on a
30-day cost free basis. Demo diskettes are in Windows format. The Examination
Kit includes a 1-test demo diskette, installation CD (with instructions), test
booklet, answer sheet and some descriptive materials. Risk & Needs does
want the test booklet and diskette returned within 30 days.
Selecting a Probationer Test
If you are selecting a probationer (male and female)
assessment instrument, the following Comparison Checklist should prove
helpful. This checklist itemizes important assessment and screening qualities.
The "Other" column represents any other test you might want to compare to the
SAQ-Adult Probation III.
TEST COMPARISON
CHECKLIST
COMPARISON CATEGORIES
SAQ-AP III
Other
Designed
Specifically for Probationer Assessment
Yes
Test
Reliability & Validity Research Provided
Yes
Test
Completed in 30 Minutes
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
& Spanish)
Yes
2. On Computer Screen
(English & Spanish)
Yes
3. Human Voice Audio
(English & Spanish)
Yes
Available in
English and Spanish
Yes
Appropriate
for Misdemeanor and Felony Assessment
Yes
Comprehensive Assessment (Seven Scales)
Yes
Alcohol and
Drugs Scales
Yes
Violence
(Lethality) Scale
Yes
Antisocial
Scale
Yes
Aggressiveness Scale
Yes
Stress
Coping Abilities Scale
Yes
Delete
Client Names (Confidentiality) Procedure
Yes
HIPAA
(federal regulation) Compliant
Yes
Test Data
Input Verification Procedure
Yes
Built-in
Database
Yes
Annual
Database Research (Free)
Yes
Annual Test
Program Summary (Free)
Yes
Large
(175,000) Research Database
Yes
Available in
MS-DOS and Windows
Yes
Helpful
Score-Related Reports
Yes
Easily
Understood Reports
Yes
ASAM
Compatible Recommendations
Yes
Staff
Training (Free)
Yes
Examination
Kits (Free)
Yes
Very
Affordable Test Unit Fee
Yes
"Demonstrated
reliability, validity & accuracy"
SAQ-Adult Probation III Interpretation
An example 4-page SAQ-Adult Probation
III report follows this discussion of test interpretation. It is provided as a
ready reference to augment this dialogue. There are several levels of
interpretation ranging from viewing the SAQ-Adult Probation III as a
self-report to interpreting scale elevation and scale interrelationships.
The following table is a starting point for
interpreting SAQ-Adult Probation III scale scores.
SAQ-ADULT PROBATION
III 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. Severe
problems represent the highest 11 percent of probationers evaluated with the
SAQ-Adult Probation III, which has been normed on thousands of probationers.
And, this normative sample continues to expand with each test that is
administered.
SCALE
INTERPRETATION
1.
Truthfulness Scale: Measures how truthful
the probationer was while completing the test. It identifies guarded and
defensive probationers who attempt to fake good. Truthfulness Scale scores in
the 70th to 89th percentile range are accurate. Truthfulness
Scale scores at or above the 90th percentile
mean that all SAQ-Adult Probation III scales are inaccurate (invalid) because
the probationer was overly guarded, read things into test items that aren't
there, was minimizing problems or was caught faking answers. Probationers with
reading impairments might also score in this 90th to 100th
percentile scoring range.
If not consciously deceptive, probationers 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 is
important because it shows whether or not the probationer answered test items
honestly. Truthfulness Scale scores at or below the 89th percentile indicate that all other scale scores
are accurate. One of the first things to check when
reviewing an SAQ-Adult Probation III report is the Truthfulness Scale
score.
2. Violence (Lethality)
Scale: Identifies probationers 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 are insightless about how they express their anger/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 score with an elevated Antisocial, Alcohol
or Drugs Scale score. Substance (alcohol or other drugs) abuse and antisocial
attitudes can contribute to a person's dangerousness. The more of these scales that are elevated
with an elevated Violence Scale, the worse the
prognosis.
An elevated Stress Coping Abilities Scale with an elevated Violence
Scale provides insight regarding co-determinants and possible treatment
recommendations. A Severe Problem Violence Scale score is a malignant sign
with or without other scale elevations and describes a dangerous person. An
elevated Violence Scale with an elevated Aggressiveness Scale score increases
the probability of acting out. The Violence Scale score can be interpreted
independently or in combination with other SAQ-Adult Probation III scales.
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 sometime violent actions that flout social and ethical codes as
well as laws. This behavior pattern often begins with a conduct disorder
involving lying, stealing, fighting, cruelty, truancy, vandalism and substance
abuse. Elevated
Antisocial Scale scores are often associated with non-internalization of
recognized conventions. Many high Antisocial Scale
scorers manifest a seeming inability to profit from experience.
An elevated Antisocial Scale in conjunction with an
elevated Alcohol Scale, Drugs Scale or Violence Scale score would be a
malignant sign prognostically. A Severe Problem Stress Coping Abilities scale
score with an elevated Severe Problem Antisocial Scale suggests the
possibility of a suspicious/paranoid mental health problem. And, an elevated
Antisocial Scale score suggests a rather negative flavor to acting out
behaviors. The Antisocial Scale can be interpreted independently or in
combination with other SAQ-Adult Probation III scales.
4. Aggressiveness
Scale: Measures
aggressive or outgoing behavior. Aggressiveness is defined as a social
dominance and a tendency toward hostility. This condition is often
characterized by a lack of social concern for others. Aggressive conduct
disorders are characterized by persistent, domineering, punitive and even
assaultive verbal or physical conduct.
An elevated Aggressiveness Scale score is indicative
of increased risk-taking behavior, acting out potential and impulsiveness.
Severe Problem scorers represent the extreme and can constitute a subgroup of
antisocial personality disorders. Characteristics include lack of social
concern, disrespect of others property and deliberate annoying of others.
Severe Problem scorers often cross the line between
aggressive behavior and inappropriate acting out. Aggressive tendencies are
particularly troublesome in people also scoring in the elevated Violence Scale
range.
An aggressive person who is also antisocial and/or
manifests an elevated Violence Scale score can be particularly dangerous.
Substance (alcohol and other drugs) abuse tends to magnify a person's
aggressive problem tendencies. A person with a Severe Problem Aggressiveness
Scale score becomes more bothersome or distracting with a concurrently
elevated substance abuse, Antisocial Scale or Stress Coping Abilities Scale
score. The Aggressiveness Scale can be interpreted independently or in
combination with other SAQ-Adult Probation III scales.
5. 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 could result in an
abstainer (current non-drinker) attaining a Low to Medium Risk score,
precautions have been built into the SAQ-Adult Probation III to correctly
identify "recovering alcoholics."
The probationers answer to the "recovering" question
(item #149) is printed on the last page of the report for easy
reference. In addition, elevated Alcohol Scale paragraphs
caution staff to establish if the probationer is a recovering alcoholic.
Other Alcohol Scale items are printed as significant
items when they are admitted to. For example: #18 (Admits has a drinking
problem); #28 (In last year drinking was a problem); #44 (Admits has an
alcohol problem); and #71 (Admits drinking is a serious problem).
Severely elevated Alcohol and Drugs Scale scores
indicate polysubstance abuse, and the highest score usually identifies the
probationer's substance of choice.
Scores in the Severe Problem (90th to 100th
percentile) range are a malignant sign. And, Alcohol Scale scores in the
Severe Problem range often magnify the behaviors associated with other
elevated scale scores when the probationer has been drinking. The Alcohol
Scale score can be interpreted independently or in combination with other
SAQ-Adult Probation III scales.
6. Drugs Scale: Measures
drug use and the severity of abuse. Drugs refer to marijuana, ice, crack,
cocaine, amphetamines, barbiturates and heroin. An elevated (70th to 89th
percentile) Drugs Scale score identifies emerging drug problems. A Drugs Scale
score in the Severe Problem (90th to 100th percentile) range identifies established drug
problems.
A history of drug-related problems (e.g., drug-related
arrests, drug treatment, etc.) could result in an abstainer (current non-user)
attaining a Low to Medium Risk Drugs Scale score. For this reason, precautions
have been built into the SAQ-Adult Probation III to insure correct
identification of "recovering" drug abusers. Many of these precautions are
similar to those discussed in the previous Alcohol Scale description. The probationer's answer to the "recovering" question
(item #149) is printed on the last page of the report for easy
reference. In addition, elevated Drugs Scale paragraphs caution
staff to establish if the probationer is a recovering drug abuser.
Other Drugs Scale items are printed as significant
items when they are admitted to. For example: #47 (States still uses drugs);
#63 (In last year had a drug problem); #90 (Admits to a drug problem); #101
(States is in drug treatment) and #104 (Admits is dependent on drugs).
Concurrently elevated Drugs and Alcohol Scale scores
are indicative of polysubstance abuse, and the highest score usually reflects
the probationer's substance of choice.
A Severe Problem Drugs Scale score usually exacerbates
or magnifies the effects associated with other elevated scores when the
probationer uses drugs. A particularly dangerous situation exists when the
Violence Scale score and the Drugs Scale score are in the Severe Problem
range. Elevated Drugs Scale scores contribute to further impaired Stress
Coping Abilities Scale scorers' stress handling abilities. A Severe Problem
Drugs Scale score is an even more problematic sign when any Aggressiveness,
Violence or Antisocial Scales are also on the Severe Problem range. The Drugs
Scale can be interpreted independently or in combination with other SAQ-Adult
Probation III scales.
7. Stress Coping Abilities
Scale: Measures one's ability to cope effectively with tension,
stress and pressure. It is now accepted that stress exacerbates symptoms of
mental and emotional problems. Thus, an elevated Stress Coping Abilities Scale
score in conjunction with other elevated SAQ-Adult Probation III scales helps
explain the probationer's situation. When a probationer doesn't handle stress
well, other existing problems are often exacerbated. Such problem augmentation
or magnification applies to substance (alcohol and other drugs) abuse,
behavioral acting out and attitudinal problems.
When a Stress Coping Abilities Scale score is in the
Problem Risk (70th to 89th percentile) range, the probationer would benefit
from a stress management program wherein effective stress coping strategies
are taught. When a Stress Coping Abilities Scale score is in the Severe
Problem (90th to 100th percentile) range, it is very likely that the
probationer has a diagnosable mental health problem. In these instances,
referral to a certified/licensed mental health professional is warranted for a
diagnosis and treatment plan. As noted earlier, lower elevated scores suggest
possible referral alternatives like stress management counseling. Elevated and
severe problem scores trigger more intense treatment options. The Stress
Coping Abilities Scale can be interpreted independently or in conjunction with
other SAQ-Adult Probation III scale scores.
In conclusion, it was noted that there are several
"levels" of SAQ-Adult Probation III interpretation ranging from viewing the
SAQ-Adult Probation III as a self-report to interpreting scale elevations and
interrelationships. Staff can then put SAQ-Adult Probation III test report
findings within the context of the probationer's life and corrections
situation.
For even more insight into how the SAQ-Adult Probation
III works, users are encouraged to review the SAQ-Adult Probation III:
Orientation and Training Manual. Each scale's scoring methodology is
explained, unique assessment features are discussed, and more detailed
information on the SAQ-Adult Probation III system is presented.
Both the SAQ-Adult Probation III and the SAQ-Short
Form are discussed in the Orientation and Training Manual. This manual is a
must read for thorough understanding of the SAQ-Adult Probation III and the
SAQ-Short Form.
Additional SAQ-Adult Probation III and Short Form
information can be provided upon request.
The SAQ-Adult Probation III report consists of four
pages. Although the same format or outline is used, these reports are 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.
