Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
The following are common questions pertaining to CDCR’s Division of Rehabilitative Programs (DRP):
To learn more about recidivism and how CDCR defines it, please visit this link:
Offender Recidivism – Office of Research (ca.gov)
Criminogenic is a factor or set of factors that influence an individual’s tendency toward criminal behavior. The greater the criminogenic rating, the more likely an individual is to commit crimes.
As defined by Dictionary.com, rehabilitation means “to restore to a condition of good health, ability to work, or the like.” As applied to incarcerated persons and parolees, this definition fits the mission of the Division of Rehabilitative Programs by using evidence-based rehabilitative programs, so that incarcerated persons can leave an institution prepared to be healthy, productive members of society.
At CDCR, the term “incarcerated person” refers to a person who has broken the law and is now serving time in an institution as an incarcerated person. While technically the term incarcerated person can also apply to people on parole, DRP uses it for incarcerated persons in an institution.
As part of their duties, Correctional Counselors work inside institutions to assist in the assessment, development, and recommended correctional programs for their assigned incarcerated persons.
DRP provides evidence-based Cognitive Behavioral Interventions (CBI) programs that address negative patterns of thought, including: substance use disorder, anger management, family relationships and criminal thinking. This is accomplished through assessments, individual and group classes, motivational interviewing, role-playing, and other methods. The women’s CBI also offers programs that are gender-responsive and trauma-informed.
The needs of incarcerated persons vary greatly. To provide more targeted rehabilitation, CDCR uses an evidence-based tool called the Correctional Offender Management Profiling for Alternative Sanctions (COMPAS), to assess an incarcerated persons needs and target those needs. If an incarcerated person has not had a COMPAS assessment, they should speak with their Correctional Counselor.
The California Static Risk Assessment (CSRA) uses an incarcerated persons past criminal history and characteristics to predict their risk to reoffend. If an incarcerated person is unsure if they have had a CSRA assessment, they should speak with their Correctional Counselor.
Incarcerated persons who are assigned to Adult Basic Education or Adult Secondary Education are required to be regularly assessed in reading and mathematics via the CASAS test series. These measure workplace skills and performance gains of the College and Career Readiness academic standards. Test takers are asked questions that cover everyday situations that relate to their lives, goals, and employment.
No, DRP does not offer treatment, but offers programs focused on rehabilitation to assist the incarcerated population to be released back to their communities with the tools to be successful contributing members of society.