Dynamic risk factors are often referred to as what?

Dynamic risk factors are commonly known as criminogenic needs because they refer to specific areas of an individual's behavior and circumstances that contribute to their risk of re-offending. These factors are not fixed; they can change over time based on an individual's circumstances, choices, and interventions. Criminogenic needs typically include factors such as substance abuse, poor education or employment status, anti-social attitudes, and family issues—elements that are amenable to change and influence the likelihood of future criminal behavior. Focusing on these needs allows for targeted interventions that can reduce recidivism by addressing the root causes of a juvenile's delinquent behavior.

In contrast, permanent needs, static risks, and insurmountable barriers refer to different concepts. Permanent needs might imply requirements that do not change, while static risks involve factors that are fixed over time, such as a person's criminal history. Insurmountable barriers typically refer to challenges that hinder an individual's progress without emphasizing the changeable nature of their circumstances, which is crucial when discussing dynamic risk factors.