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Exploring the Social Ties and Diversity in the Incarceration Experience of Hispanic/Latino/Spanish Individuals

NCJ Number
309688
Journal
Journal of Ethnicity in Criminal Justice Volume: 21 Issue: 4 Dated: November 2023 Pages: 362-385
Author(s)
Andrea N. Montes
Date Published
November 2023
Length
24 pages
Annotation

This paper reports on a study that assessed three measures of social ties as dependent variables among Hispanic/Latino/Spanish subgroup categories revealed differences that were otherwise obscured regarding arrest rates; the study’s findings suggest the need for more research to better understand ethnic identity and how it is related to criminological experiences and outcomes.

Abstract

The study starts by examining descriptive differences between incarcerated Hispanic/Latino/Spanish subgroups. Then, using three measures of social ties as dependent variables, explores whether using Hispanic/Latino/Spanish subgroup categories, as compared to a single category, reveals otherwise obscured differences. Compared to other subgroups Mexicans had a higher percentage of males and married individuals, and a lower percentage of individuals who were previously arrested. Puerto Rican/other Caribbeans had a higher percentage who were 29 years or younger. Regression analyses (N = 5,967) showed that before incorporating controls, Mexican individuals, compared to White individuals, had a higher likelihood of receiving letters or making calls. Collectively, these results underscore the need for further understanding ethnic identity and how this identity is associated with criminological experiences and outcomes. (Published Abstract Provided)