Recidivism should not be a singular method of measuring outcomes and needs to be put in perspective, along with other correctional system objectives. The correctional system is one of several intervening factors that collectively influence an offender's course of action. Such factors may include family dynamics, employment conditions, peer influence, and community support. Recidivism is an important measurement of correctional system interventions. The ability to reduce recidivism is largely controlled by two factors: (1) correctional agency's culture and expectations; and (2) tools provided to reduce recidivism. Correctional agencies need to identify expectations for offender behavior, and probation departments need the tools necessary to reduce recidivism. Behavioral and cognitive approaches can reduce recidivism by about 15 percent. Approaches that individualize by taking into account responsibility factors can reduce recidivism by 50 to 70 percent. Surveillance and nonbehavioral programs and punishment alone are not effective in reducing recidivism over the long-term and may actually increase the likelihood of recidivism. Probation departments need the knowledge and resources to reduce the risk of recidivism and need to focus on interventions that effectively reduce recidivism. 1 figure