Race and Gender Inequalities Portrayed in Introduction to Criminal Justice and Introduction to Sociology Textbook Images

• In Event: Innovative Techniques in Qualitative Research

Abstract

This study is a content analysis of Introduction to Criminal Justice and Introduction to Sociology textbook images. Images from top selling Introduction to Criminal Justice textbooks and from Deviance chapters of top selling Introduction to Sociology textbooks across major publishers were examined for depictions of women and racial minorities within the criminal justice system. Using feminist theory and critical race theory, actors within the images were coded by expressed sexuality, portrayal as an offender, portrayal as a criminal justice system employee, and portrayal as a victim. Implications of these portrayals are also discussed.

Authors

• Julie Yingling, South Dakota State University

• Ruthie Wienk, South Dakota State University