Mapping Risky Peers in Probation: Sociogram Session Demo

This video demonstrates how probation officers can use a sociogram to address risky peers, strengthen social capital, and support desistance. In this video, I work with fictional client “Mia Wallace” in a recreated probation supervision session focused on one of the most important criminogenic needs: risky peers. Using a practical tool known as a sociogram, we explore Mia’s social network and examine which people in her life are moving her closer to—or further away from—her goals. This session demonstrates how probation officers, parole officers, case managers, and correctional professionals can use a sociogram to help clients better understand: who is influencing their behavior which relationships increase risk which relationships support desistance how social capital can be strengthened how to move helpful people closer and risky influences further away We also discuss the three levels of desistance: Primary desistance — stopping the behavior Secondary desistance — beginning to see oneself differently Tertiary desistance — being recognized by others as changed A key theme throughout this session is the power of hope and belief. A client’s belief in their own ability to change matters deeply—but so does the practitioner’s belief in them. When clients feel seen, supported, and believed in, the possibility of change becomes more real. This video is part of an ongoing effort to bring real-world supervision practice to life by showing what evidence-informed conversations can look like in action. If you work in probation, parole, corrections, behavioral health, or human services, this session offers a practical look at how to move beyond simply identifying risky peers and toward helping clients reshape the social worlds that influence their behavior. To learn more about the TIDES Supervision Model, visit: TheTIDESLLC.com For questions about this video or The Criminologist Podcast, contact: [email protected]