Which principle of the R-N-R model addresses the individual needs of the youth?

The Need principle of the R-N-R (Risk-Need-Responsivity) model emphasizes addressing the specific individual needs of youth within the juvenile justice system. This principle focuses on identifying and targeting the factors that contribute to a youth's delinquent behavior, such as substance abuse, mental health issues, family problems, or educational deficits. By understanding and addressing these needs, practitioners can tailor interventions and programs that improve outcomes for young individuals, facilitating their rehabilitation and reducing the likelihood of reoffending.

In contrast, the other principles serve different aspects of the model. The Risk principle involves assessing the likelihood of reoffending, allowing for the prioritization of resources towards higher-risk youth. The Responsivity principle pertains to how treatment is delivered in ways that are appropriate to the youth’s learning style, motivations, and cultural background. The Accountability principle focuses on ensuring that youth take responsibility for their actions, which is essential for promoting accountability and motivating change. Each principle plays a critical role in the overall effectiveness of interventions in the juvenile justice system, but the Need principle specifically targets individual needs, making it the correct answer in this context.