NCJ Number
124107
Journal
Forum on Corrections Research Volume: 2 Issue: 1 Dated: 1990 Pages: 14-19
Date Published
1990
Length
6 pages
Annotation
The negative perceptions toward their criminal justice system held by many Canadians are based on unsystematic impressions, the disproportionate weight that is given to a few loud voices, and beliefs that are said to be supported by "scientific" opinion polls.
Abstract
Public disapproval of how the criminal justice system is functioning is frustrating for correctional workers, hurts their morale, and may deter them from attempting new programs. Public opinion polls have performed well in predicting political outcomes and have gained the support and credibility of politicians and policy makers. The techniques that are used to measure preferences among candidates are being used to measure attitudes on complex issues such as the treatment of criminal offenders. Criminal justice decisions are complex, and the specifics of each case are critical in making decisions. To reduce choices to the generalizations of global questions makes the answers vacuous and not to be trusted. There are other methods that can be used to gather detailed and specific information which are more likely to yield an accurate overall picture. The author's research using the scenario method has results which differ from those obtained through opinion polls. Changes are needed to correct wrong impressions held by the public toward the criminal justice system. Public information could be used to correct these impressions. 11 notes. (Publishers abstract modified)