Offense specialization and versatility of Japanese prisoners

• In Event: Poster Session

Abstract

The aim of this study is to examine the offense specialization and versatility of Japanese prisoners. Based on the Annual Report of Correctional Statistics in Japan in 2021, we calculated the forward specialization coefficient (FSC) developed by Farrington et al. (1988). Results show that the FSCs for theft, indecent assault, rape, violation of the Methamphetamine Control Law, and other offenses were 0.63, 0.27, 0.00, 0.70, and 0.44, respectively. These results suggest a strong tendency toward specialization in violation of the Methamphetamine Control Law and theft, and a strong tendency toward versatility in rape. These results were discussed with those of other countries and Japan in the past.

Authors

• Yoshikazu Yuma, Hyogo University of Teacher Education

• Yuichiro Kanazawa, International Christian University