Differential Consequences of Police Contact In and Out of Schools

• In Event: Labeling and Stigma II

Abstract

Police-initiated encounters, such as being stopped and questioned or arrested, are relatively common for many youth. While these interactions often take place in the community, youth’s encounters with the police are increasingly occurring in schools. The location of these interactions may affect stigmatizing consequences, particularly if the location is associated with higher visibility of the encounter. Using data from the University of Missouri – St. Louis Comprehensive School Safety Initiative, we examine how consequences of police contact might differ depending on the location of the encounter. Specifically, we focus on the impact that being stopped and questioned or arrested at school versus outside of school has on later educational outcomes (e.g., school sanctions, school performance, attitudes toward school) and justice system involvement. Given the dearth of research on the effects of police encounters in schools, the results from this study will provide a foundation for knowledge on these police contacts.

Authors

• Stephanie A. Wiley, Simon Fraser University

• Lee Slocum, University of Missouri - St. Louis

• Finn-Aage Esbensen, University of Missouri - St. Louis