NCJ Number
245361
Journal
Justice Quarterly Volume: 31 Issue: 2 Dated: April 2014 Pages: 344-367
Date Published
April 2014
Length
24 pages
Annotation
This article discusses restrictive deterrence.
Abstract
Although researchers have examined the attributes that make offenders more or less responsive to sanction threats, far less attention has centered on the manner in which responsiveness can lead to less detectible crime, or perhaps even more overall crime. Restrictive deterrence is the concept that explains this paradox. The authors explore it here using qualitative interviews with 35 active auto thieves. Findings suggest that auto thieves' restrictively deterrent decisionmaking strategies fell into three broad categories: discretionary target selection, normalcy illusions, and defiance. Discussion focuses on the data's conceptual implications for restrictive deterrence and offender decisionmaking. Abstract published by arrangement with Taylor and Francis.