Perceptions of and support for sex offender policies: Testing Levenson, Brannon, Fortney, and Baker’s findings

In one of the most impactful studies of perceptions of sex offender legislation, respondents claimed that they would support the laws, “even if there is no scientific evidence showing that they reduce sexual abuse” (Levenson, Brannon, Fortney, & Baker, 2007). The present research experimentally...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Journal of criminal justice 2015-01, Vol.43 (1), p.80-88
Main Author: Koon-Magnin, Sarah
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Crime prevention
Criminal law
Gender differences
Perceptions
Sex offenders
Social psychology
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Summary:In one of the most impactful studies of perceptions of sex offender legislation, respondents claimed that they would support the laws, “even if there is no scientific evidence showing that they reduce sexual abuse” (Levenson, Brannon, Fortney, & Baker, 2007). The present research experimentally tested that assertion across two samples of Alabama residents. In both samples, an experimental group was informed that, “There is no conclusive scientific evidence showing that sex offender registries or notification laws reduce sexual abuse.” All respondents were then asked about community notification statutes. Support was high among all respondents (regardless of the experimental prompt) and did not differ significantly based on demographic characteristics. Males were more likely than females to perceive some policies as effective. Parents reported that they would feel significantly more fear and anger if a sex offender moved into their neighborhood than did non-parents. These findings suggest that: 1.) despite their limited instrumental impact, sex offender laws hold symbolic value to the public, 2.) more research is needed to further understand demographic differences in perceptions of sex offender policies, and 3.) perhaps public education must precede an effective attempt at implementing evidence-based sex offender legislation. •Respondents support sex offender laws regardless of the instrumental value of these laws•More respondents support sex offender laws than view them as effective means of crime control•Support for sex offender laws was high among all demographic groups•Some demographic characteristics were associated with attitudes towards these policies
ISSN:0047-2352
1873-6203
DOI:10.1016/j.jcrimjus.2014.12.007