Reconceptualizing Sanction “Celerity”

• In Event: Sanction Perceptions, Deterrent Emotions, and Criminal Decision-Making

Abstract

Deterrence scholars have focused on the certainty and severity of punishment with relatively little attention paid to the celerity of punishment. Traditionally, criminological theory has posited that swift sanctions should provide the strongest deterrent effect. This work proposes that contrary to traditional celerity expectations, a delay in sanctioning may produce a stronger deterrent effect by activating expected emotions such as dread. Findings from multiple studies with undergraduate students are provided. Implications for theory and areas for future research are discussed.

Authors

• Chae Mamayek Jaynes, University of South Florida

• Theodore Wilson, University at Albany, SUNY