NCJ Number
127936
Journal
Criminal Justice Policy Review Volume: 3 Issue: 2 Dated: (June 1989) Pages: 184-207
Date Published
1989
Length
24 pages
Annotation
This article analyzes dimensions of the get-tough policy approach in criminal justice for all States and the District of Columbia. The paper reports on a factor analysis which undertakes a wide variety of variables which either represent purposive policy activities or reflect the outcomes of those activities.
Abstract
The article includes the range of possible analytic expectations about such a factor analysis, the variable set on which the analysis has been conducted, the main results of the factor analysis, and some discussion of those results. The analytic expectations includes four principal alternative hypotheses: a universal program, modern and traditional, distinctive administrative rhythm, and idiosyncratic policy behavior. The results of the factor analysis center on three factors: the custody factor, the symbolic punishment factor, and the parole policy factor. The factor analysis confirms the conventional wisdom that there was a generally punitive approach in criminal justice policy in the 1970's and early 1980's and that it was very widespread. 25 notes, data appendix, and 36 references (Author abstract modified)