The nationwide effort to identify what works for Black and Asian offenders has provided a number of useful findings for discussion. The nationwide strategy for probation programs is reflected in the Pathfinder probation programs, which emphasize self-development through modifying "cognitive deficits" in individuals that have resulted from a deficient socialization process and learned antisocial behavior. The Pathfinder programs, however, have emphasized change in the thinking of individuals, with little regard to the distinctive social context and cultural influences that have molded attitudes and behaviors. This focus on socioeconomic contexts for perceptions and behavior is particularly important in working with Black and Asian offenders. Home Office studies of the effect of Pathfinder interventions on offending behavior have not been conclusive; consequently, efforts to improve program interventions have lagged. The high levels of racism reported in a number of research studies indicate that both the causes and effects of racism in the criminal justice system and communities must be addressed as part of innovative program changes. This suggests that programming for Black and Asian offenders must involve the exploration of self-concepts, challenges to negative views of the self and the wider community, and the learning of constructive ways of coping with and challenging discrimination and the inequalities it breeds. These efforts must be tailored to the experiences of Black and Asian probationers in their local communities, since this is where they must develop positive behaviors for addressing community-based problems of discrimination and disadvantage. 39 references