Dating with a Record: Assessing the Impact of Criminal Record Status on Women's Dating Prospects

• In Event: Poster Session 1

Abstract

Experimental studies on the harmful effects of criminal record stigma have largely focused on structural implications (i.e., effects on employment and housing). Less is known about the social implications of criminal record stigma (e.g., effects on social relationships). This is an important gap in the literature since prior studies generally suggests a protective effect of quality romantic relationships, especially marriage, on future offending (e.g., Siennick et al., 2014). To address this gap, a quasi-experimental audit was used to test the effects of criminal record stigma on dating prospects across race and ethnicity for criminal justice involved women. Pairs of Black, White, and Latinx dating profiles were created. One profile in each pair disclosed a parole status (i.e., experimental profiles), while the other identical profile did not (i.e., control profiles). In step with prior research, the dependent variable was measured by the number of matches each profile received. Results demonstrate the importance of using an intersectional lens when investigating criminal record stigma.

Author

• Emily Spivey, Texas State University