Search

Criminologists typically test rational choice theory by examining the relationship between one aspect of decision making—the perceived costs and benefits of crime—and the likelihood of crime, primarily using (experimental) surveys that lack consideration of the neighborhood context. Building on decades of research in the risk and decision sciences, the current study utilizes broader models of decision making to qualitatively examine how youth living in concentrated disadvantage make decisions during incidents of violence. Our thematic analysis of 22 in-depth interviews with youth in a midsize midwestern city indicates that the decision process regarding violence is much more complex than previously theorized. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The repeat use of fatal force against unarmed people of color has driven global protests against police violence and fueled criticism of policing as a mechanism for public safety. In the US, calls to abolish, transform, or reform policing have reemerged with a primary focus on the elimination of structural racism. In this essay, we contend that a two-tier policing problem exists. The first is the continued use of policing to enforce racial dominance through policing practices labeled as "proactive". The second is contemporary "warrior-style" police training that normalizes the expectation of unquestioned compliance with police directives and authorizes police to use physical force in its absence. This dangerous combination results in over-policing the public generally and Black members of the public specifically. Select incidents are provided to support these claims. We conclude by expressing support for the call to reallocate portions of policing budgets toward other government and community-based structures that function to enhance the ability of people to survive and thrive rather than operate as mechanisms of pre-adjudication punishment and state-sanctioned coercion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Women who are involved in the correctional system are often neglected and overlooked. Although justice-involved women enter the carceral system with high levels of abuse and trauma, many are exposed to State violence from staff or incarcerated individuals. Criminal victimization in prison presents a significant threat to one's well-being. According to international human rights law, preventing and combatting violence against women is the responsibility of the State in all contexts, including prisons. It is imperative that women be treated humanely while under the custody of the State, which increases odds of post-release success. Policy implications and recommendations are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]