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Effects of Precision of Sentencing Information on Crime Rates A Theoretical Model

NCJ Number
95196
Journal
Journal of Criminal Justice Volume: 12 Issue: 5 Dated: (1984) Pages: 503-508
Author(s)
E Appelbaum; E Erez
Date Published
1984
Length
6 pages
Annotation
This article employs a theory of decision-making under uncertainty to examine the effects of precision of information concerning the probability and severity (costs) of punishment on individuals' 'supply of crime.'
Abstract
The analysis demonstrates that providing (correct) information that reduces uncertainty about the probability of punishment will not affect criminals' behavior, whereas the effects of information about the severity of punishment will depend on the shape of individuals' preference function. Applying this frame work, the conditions under which the standardization of punishment is a socially desirable policy are identified and discussed. (Author abstract)

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