Stigma Toward People with Criminal Records: Measurement, Causes, and Consequences
Fri, Nov 18, 3:30 to 4:50pm, A706, Atrium LevelSession Submission Type: Complete Thematic Panel
Abstract/Description
Stigma toward people with criminal records has important consequences for reentry and criminal justice policy. This thematic panel focuses on understanding stigmatizing attitudes held by the public, including the measurement, causes, and consequences of public stigma. Specifically, presentations in this panel explore: 1) the measurement and dimensionality of public stigma; 2) the use of first-person narratives shared by formerly incarcerated individuals to alleviate stigma; 3) the role of aggregate/statistical versus personal narratives in shaping responses to criminal record holders, as compared to crime victims; and 4) popular characterizations of offenders as “evil” and implications for the stigmatization of criminal record holders. Strategies for mitigating stigma during reintegration and/or promoting support for progressive criminal justice reforms are discussed throughout.
Sub Unit
Individual Presentations
Conceptualizing and Measuring Public Stigma Towards People with Prison Records - Luzi Shi, Bridgewater State University; Jason Silver, Rutgers University; Audrey Hickert, Southern Illinois University Carbondale
An Intervention to Repair the Stigma of Formerly Incarcerated People in a College Setting - Jon Overton, Kent State University; Michelle D. Fretwell, Kent State University; Kevin Weng, Meredith College; Christopher P. Dum, Kent State University
Asymmetric Value Collapse, Collateral Consequences, and Reintegration: An Experimental Study - Rachel Novick, University at Albany, SUNY; Kelly Socia, University of Massachusetts Lowell; Justin T. Pickett, University at Albany, SUNY
Punishing “Evil Offenders”: How Belief in Pure Evil Impacts Criminal Justice Policy Support Through Stigma and Preferences for Maintaining Social Order - Jason Silver, Rutgers University; Luzi Shi, Bridgewater State University; Audrey Hickert, Southern Illinois University Carbondale