Public perception of sex offender social policies and the impact on sex offenders.
This study examines the public perception of sex offender policies and the perceived impact of sex offender policies on the sex offenders themselves. Specifically, this study explores how the community feels about the effectiveness of policies such as registration and community notification (Megan's Law), and housing restrictions in reducing sexual recidivism. Data are collected from 115 participants from a nationwide online community message board. Results suggest that although most individuals support Megan's Law, they do not feel the policy reduces recidivism. Furthermore, the majority of the participants also do not believe that housing restriction statutes are effective in reducing sexual recidivism. When questioned about the policy impact on sex offenders, the majority of respondents agree that as a consequence of Megan's Law, sex offenders are afraid for their safety; however, they do not believe that residence restrictions hinder sex offenders' employment opportunities. Findings from this study are discussed as they pertain to public policy and sex offender reintegration.
Schiavone
Stacey Katz
SK
Department of Psychology, John Jay College of Criminal Justice, The City University of New York, New York, NY 10019-1199, USA. katz.schiavone@gmail.com
Jeglic
Elizabeth L
EL
D003625:Data Collection; D006798:Housing / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D011287:Prejudice; D011639:Public Opinion; D011640:Public Policy / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence*; D012042:Registries; D012050:Rehabilitation, Vocational / Q000523:psychology; D055502:Secondary Prevention; D012742:Sex Offenses / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence* / Q000517:prevention & control / Q000523:psychology*; D012931:Social Environment; D012951:Socialization; D014481:United States