Although the “get-tough” approach is popular among the American public and policymakers alike, incarceration does not reduce crime

Authors

Marika Dawkins-Cavazos, The University of Texas Rio Grande ValleyFollow

Document Type

Response or Comment

Publication Date

2014

Abstract

The prevalence of crime has been of great concern to policymakers for decades, with many factors being blamed and many solutions suggested. Since the 1970s’ punitive incarceration policies have found favor, and are now being replicated for juvenile offenders as well. Using state-level data on crime and juvenile residential placement (which have now become very similar in their operations to those of adult facilities), Marika Dawkins finds that such placements do not lead to a reduction in juvenile offending or crime. She argues that, in this light, community-based sanctions as well as greater support for families should take precedence over institutionalization.

Comments

© 2014 The Author

Recommended Citation

Dawkins, Marika (2014) Although the “get-tough” approach is popular among the American public and policymakers alike, incarceration does not reduce crime. LSE American Politics and Policy (14 Aug 2014). Website.

Publication Title

LSE American Politics and Policy