Predictive validity of the YLS/CMI in a sample of Portuguese young offenders

Abstract

The Youth Level of Service/Case Management Inventory (YLS/CMI) is a widely used risk assessment instrument that comprehensively assesses risk factors and criminogenic needs among young individuals. This study explores the association between YLS/CMI scores and subsequent recidivism among 608 Portuguese young offenders aged 12 to 18 years. The results support the predictive validity of the YLS/CMI in assessing recidivism among young offenders. The study found significant connections between YLS/CMI scores and recidivism for Placement in an Education Center (PEC) measures, indicating higher scores correlated with increased reoffending likelihood. However, no significant association was found between YLS/CMI scores and recidivism in Educational Supervision (ES) measures. These results emphasize the need to consider specific measures when gauging YLS/CMI’s predictive validity.