What are the two main types of inmate classification systems?

The two main types of inmate classification systems are risk assessment and needs-based classification. This classification approach focuses on both the security risks that inmates may pose to others and the individual needs of inmates that may affect their behavior and rehabilitation.

Risk assessment classification evaluates the potential threat an inmate may pose based on their history, behavior, and other factors. This ensures that inmates are placed in environments that are appropriate for their security level, helping prevent incidents such as violence or escapes.

Needs-based classification, on the other hand, focuses on the specific rehabilitation and support needs of inmates, including educational programs, mental health services, and substance abuse treatment. This approach helps to address underlying issues that may have led individuals to criminal behavior, providing the chance for rehabilitation and reducing recidivism.

This dual focus on both risks and needs allows facilities to manage their populations more effectively, ensuring safety and promoting rehabilitation. Other options, while relevant to certain aspects of inmate management, do not represent the two primary classification systems typically used in corrections.