An examination of the factors associated with support for punitive penal punishments among courtroom actors

• In Event: Attitudes and the Criminal Court System

Abstract

A considerable body of literature has sought to examine the relationship between the perceived threat posed by racial and ethnic minorities and support for the use of harsh penal punishments. While these studies have expanded our knowledge on this important topic, research that has investigated this relationship among criminal justice practitioners has been rare. To address this gap in the literature, the current study relies on survey data from over 1,000 courtroom actors in one Midwestern state. This study will dedicate particular attention to exploring the relationship between the perceived criminal, economic, and political threat posed by minority groups and support for punitive penal punishments.

Authors

• Ethan Amidon, Missouri State University

• Katelyn McMahon, Missouri State University

• Jennifer LaPrade, Missouri State University