The Effect of Perception of Police Prejudice against Minorities on Juveniles' Delinquent Behavior

• In Event: Poster Session II

Abstract

The purpose of the current study is to examine the ways in which perception of police prejudice against racial minorities (PPP) affects juvenile delinquent behavior. While individual reactions to perceived prejudice against their peers have long been studied in the field of psychology and sociology, the effect of perceived prejudice on delinquency has not been studied. Studies of prejudice and expectations suggest that there can be various types of reactions to the perception of prejudice. In some situations, the experience of prejudice or stereotyping may lead minorities to adopt pro-social behaviors in order to avoid or overcome the stereotyping. Being prejudiced against or expecting to be harassed by police may lead individuals to feel powerlessness and to avoid the risk of encountering police. Therefore, theoretically, PPP may function as a crime deterrent in some situations or for particular populations. Thus, the current study will examine the effect of PPP on juveniles’ delinquent behavior, focusing on potentially different effects according to race, and utilizing data from the Gang Resistance Education and Training. The proposed study will analyze the panel data that were collected in 1995 through 1999 (Five waves) utilizing the Group-based Trajectory Model and the Hierarchical Generalized Linear Model.

Author

• Kwang Hyun Ra, University of South Carolina