Resolving Community Disputes - Social Conflict and Social Control

• NCJ Number: 103905
• Author(s): L W Kennedy
• Date Published: 1985
• Length: 15 pages
• Corporate Author: University of Alberta
• Sale Source: National Institute of Justice/; NCJRS Photocopy Services
• Publication Type: Report (Study/Research)
• Language: English
• Country: Canada
• Note: Edmonton Area Series Report No. 37

Annotation

This Canadian study tests theories regarding factors that affect the selection of mechanisms for resolving disputes and the resolution of disputes, notably community solidarity, the degree of relational intimacy between the disputants, and disputants' punitive attitudes.

Abstract

A total of 452 subjects, composing a cross-sectional sample of Edmonton (Canada) residents, were administered structured interviews to determine the types of disputes in which subjects had been involved within the last 3 years, whether or not the disputes were resolved, and factors affecting dispute resolution. Demographic data (age, income, marital status, and home ownership) were also obtained on the subjects. Young subjects with lower incomes and a transient lifestyle tended to have become involved in disputes centered in personal threats and attacks and money disagreements. Older and more affluent subjects tended to be involved in neighborhood disputes. The successful resolution of criminal disputes was related to the relationship between the disputants and community solidarity. The strength of the disputants' social network was important in resolving money disputes, and the resolution of neighborhood disputes was significantly related to subjects' views about society's obligation to punish offenders and also social support from family and friends. 2 tables and 24 references.