Breaking the Cycle: A Public Health Approach to Hate Prevention in Corrections

• In Event: From Bias to Belonging: Addressing Bias and Hate in Schools and Community Institutions

Abstract

This study examines the prevalence of hate-related criminal activities and the lack of empirical research on hate crime perpetrators, particularly within correctional settings. It has three primary objectives: (1) to systematically review existing hate prevention and diversion interventions for potential application in corrections; (2) to assess the feasibility of implementing selected screening tools and interventions in California’s correctional settings by identifying key barriers and facilitators; and (3) to develop recommendations for adapting these interventions to correctional settings. The study employs a structured literature review and qualitative interviews with correctional staff and community-based experts. Using a grounded theory approach, interview data is analyzed to uncover contextual factors affecting implementation. Findings inform best practices for integrating hate prevention strategies into correctional programming, ultimately contributing to evidence-based approaches for reducing hate-motivated offenses. This research advances knowledge in hate crime prevention by focusing on at-risk individuals within the criminal justice system.

Author

• Lincoln Bohn, University of California, Los Angeles