NCJ Number
141254
Journal
Criminology Volume: 31 Issue: 1 Dated: (February 1993) Pages: 41-67
Date Published
1993
Length
27 pages
Annotation
This paper examines the extent to which a reduction in self-reported drunk driving observed in Oklahoma City between identical surveys conducted in 1982 and 1990 was linked to the implementation of a strategy which incorporated threats of shame and embarrassment as well as the threat of legal sanctions.
Abstract
The percentage in 1990 who reported they had driven under the influence in the past five years and would do so in the future was significantly lower than in 1982. The reductions were substantial as well as statistically significant. Despite almost 10 years of legislation, 1990 survey respondents did not perceive a higher certainty of legal punishment than survey respondents in 1982. A significant increase occurred in the perceived certainty and severity of shame for drunk driving between 1982 and 1990. The perceived certainty of embarrassment increased significantly but perceived severity did not. The increased threat of shame and its relatively strong deterrent effect emerges as the primary source of reduction in drunk driving in the two surveys. 3 notes, 2 tables, and 64 references