assessment models

Adolescents

The original AIM Initial Aseessment model was based on Morrison's (2000) adaptation of work by Ryan (1999) to develop a continuum of responses ranging from early community based intervention with low risk cases to intensive work with the most high risk groups, often in out-of-home settings. This model was introduced in 2001 across Greater Manchester. It provided an inter-agency and holistic model for the initial assessment of young people who display sexually harmful behaviour. The model supported practitioners matching information gathered during the assessment process against a continuum of criteria as to which of four outcomes was indicated:

High concern/ Low strength

High concern/ High strength

Low concern/ Low strength

Low concern/ High strength

The model was evaluated in 3003 by Helen Griffin from the Youth Justice Trust and Professor Anthony Beech from Birmingham University. The report was published early 2004.

REVISION OF THE AIM INITIAL ASSESSMENT MODEL: UNDERPINNING PRINCIPLES

In line with the original AIM model and recommendations of the evaluation, AIM2 has been developed so that it is:

Based on a clear theoretical framework

Adapted to address up to date research about young people who sexually harm

A research -guided clinical judgement framework incorporating a simple scoring system

Appropriate only after it has been established that the young person has sexually harmed or there is strong reason to suspect that he may do so (e.g. the young man has threatened to sexually abuse)

Rooted in the priority to protect identified and potential victims

Holistic in nature and comprised of strengths and concerns

Based on four domains: sexual behaviour; developmental; family and carers and environment.

Each domain is sub divided into static and dynamic factors

Linked to Youth Justice Board's ASSET and ASSET Risk of Serious Harm and the Department of Health Core Assessment Framework

The basis for multi-agency planning and review

User friendly and manageable for practitioners

Clearly defined items for scoring (inter-rater and test-retest outcomes proved good)

Consistent enough with the AIM Initial Assessment model to avoid confusion

The AIM2 manual is divided into:

1. Introduction and background

2. Working with Black young men and their families

3. The AIM2 initial assessment model

4. Practice guidance

5. Scoring guide

6. Scoring and interpreting outcomes

7. References

8. Scoring forms