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Public Support for Racial Profiling in Airports: Results From a Statewide Poll

NCJ Number
239712
Journal
Criminal Justice Policy Review Volume: 23 Issue: 2 Dated: June 2012 Pages: 254-269
Author(s)
Shaun L. Gabbidon, Ph.D.; George E. Higgins, Ph.D.; Matthew Nelson
Date Published
June 2012
Length
16 pages
Annotation
This article examines public opinion on racial profiling at airports.
Abstract
This article examines the public opinion of randomly selected Pennsylvanians on their support for racial profiling at airports. The 2009 Penn State Poll revealed that most Pennsylvanians felt that profiling was occurring at airportsbut did not support the practice. Building on prior research, the research introduced three new measures into the area of public opinion on racial profiling. These included the role of perceived effectiveness, perceived discrimination, and ethical values in influencing public opinion on racial profiling. Respondents who felt racial profiling in airports was effective and was discriminatory were more likely to believe it was occurring. In terms of support for racial profiling, those who felt the practice was discriminatory and unethical were less likely to support it, whereas conversely, those who felt the practice was effective tended to support its use. The authors argue that the public needs to be better informed about the strategies that have been proven to be most effective in reducing the threat of terrorist attacks. Abstract published by arrangement with Sage Journals.