What does the first principle of the R-N-R model focus on?

The first principle of the Risk-Need-Responsivity (R-N-R) model emphasizes the importance of matching the intensity of services provided to the individual's level of risk. This principle is grounded in the idea that higher-risk individuals require more intensive interventions and resources to effectively address their criminogenic needs and reduce the likelihood of reoffending. By aligning the level of service to the risk level, practitioners can optimize outcomes, ensuring that interventions are both effective and efficient.

This principle is vital because it acknowledges that a "one size fits all" approach may not be effective in dealing with juvenile offenders. Instead, tailoring interventions based on risk levels helps target the underlying issues and needs that contribute to delinquent behavior. Thus, service providers can allocate resources wisely and focus on higher-risk youth who may benefit significantly from more comprehensive or intensive interventions.

In contrast, options that refer to identifying static risk factors, developing personal relationships, or counseling parental issues represent different aspects of juvenile justice practices but do not capture the crucial first principle of the R-N-R model. Static risk factors pertain more to assessing an individual's background rather than matching services, relationship development is important for engagement but not a foundational principle, and parental counseling addresses family dynamics but is not the primary focus of the R