Citation

Atkin-Plunk CA. Vict. Offender 2020; 15(2): 218-242.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2020, Informa - Taylor and Francis Group)

DOI

10.1080/15564886.2019.1711277

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Research finds that, while people are pragmatic in response to crime control, individuals are more punitive toward violent than nonviolent offenders. This endeavor examines individuals' simultaneous support for punishment and rehabilitation - balanced justice - for violent offenders with varying attributes. Using a convenience sample of 575 criminology and criminal justice students, this study examines if treatment beliefs and respondent demographic characteristics relate to sanctioning preferences.

FINDINGS indicate a balanced justice sanctioning preference for violent drug offenders, those with mental health issues, and veterans, while individuals support punishment-oriented sanctions for domestic violence offenders. Policy implications and directions for future research are discussed.

Language: en

Keywords

Balanced justice; public opinion; punishment; rehabilitation; violent offenders