Challenges to Criminologists in Non-Academic Careers (Organized by the Working Group on Criminologists in Non-Academic Careers, in honor of the 30th Anniversary of the Division on Women & Crime)

Session Submission Type: Complete Thematic Panel

Abstract

Criminologists are often trained to work in a university environment, where they teach classes and conduct research for peer-reviewed publications. For some, however, working in the “field” is a more attractive option, where their research may have a more direct and immediate effect on policy and practice. While such positions have important benefits, including serving as a link between researchers and practitioners, these “field criminologists” face a number of unique and difficult challenges that their training may not have prepared them for. Some of these are conducting research with colleagues who have multiple, competing priorities, working within bureaucratic systems, and encountering political and ideological forces within their agency that may place a researchers findings at odds with their superior’s beliefs. In addition, a major challenge is working in an environment that may have little experience with research procedures and protocols, which makes education a high priority. This panel includes five criminologists who have worked in non-academic careers, sharing stories and experiences they have faced in the “field.” This session is intended to be a workshop involving the panel and those attending in a discussion of challenges in non-academic careers, and ways of meeting those challenges.

Sub Unit

• Area VII. Methodology / 58. Advances in Teaching Methods

Chair

• Carolyn Rebecca Block, Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority (Retired)

Discussants

• David Mazeika, The College of New Jersey

• Brenda Riley, Tarleton State University

• Danielle A. Tolson, University of Florida

• Michael Rocque, Maine Department of Corrections / Bates College