Correctional Counselor (CC1) Practice Exam

What is COMPAS used for in correctional settings?

1. A tool for financial assessments of inmates

2. An automated needs assessment tool

3. A program for inmate physical rehabilitation

4. Heuristic evaluation of counseling effectiveness

The correct answer is: An automated needs assessment tool

COMPAS, which stands for Correctional Offender Management Profiling for Alternative Sanctions, is primarily utilized in correctional settings as an automated needs assessment tool. Its design helps correctional staff and institutions evaluate the risks and needs of inmates, aiding in making informed decisions regarding supervision levels, treatment needs, and rehabilitation strategies. This tool incorporates a variety of factors, such as criminal history and personal characteristics, to provide a comprehensive profile of each offender. The results allow counselors and correctional professionals to tailor interventions and programs to address specific rehabilitative needs, ultimately aiming to reduce recidivism and enhance successful reintegration into society. The other options do not accurately reflect the primary function of COMPAS. For instance, while financial assessments, physical rehabilitation programs, and evaluations of counseling effectiveness are important aspects of correctional management, they do not capture the focused objectives of COMPAS, which is centered around assessing inmates' needs and risks.