Data came from a survey of 386 males and 227 females supervised between 1982 and 1986 by the parole offices of northeastern Ohio. This region included both rural and urban areas. Each parolee's file included initial and periodic assessments of risks and needs. The initial assessment instrument followed the Wisconsin classification system. Additional data were gathered from case supervision approach forms, which were used to determine the type of approach and interaction suitable in handling or treating each parolee. Results revealed that although male and female parolees did not differ in their need scores in the various areas included in the need assessment form or in the parole officers' subjective impression of need levels, significant differences existed in the factors used by the parole officers to arrive at their decisions. Male parolees were perceived mainly as dangerous, whereas females were viewed as evil women with needs determined largely from gender-role expectations. Findings suggested that gender-role expectations and stereotypes guide the decisionmaking process in the need assessment and recommendations regarding treatment for parolees. However, gender-neutral rehabilitation is necessary for meaningful and effective reform of parolees, particularly females; efforts are needed to transform the current modes of thinking and practice. Tables, footnotes, and 62 references (Author abstract modified)