NCJ Number
168656
Journal
Journal of Crime and Justice Volume: 20 Issue: 1 Dated: (1997) Pages: 191-210
Date Published
1997
Length
20 pages
Annotation
This paper discusses the relationship between theory, research and policy in criminal justice.
Abstract
The paper contends that one's worldview has an impact on the selection of research questions, the manner in which the questions are investigated and the interpretation of the observations which one makes. Similarly, one's worldview influences the selection of preferred policy alternatives. Research is not necessarily the basis of policy and, even if policymakers had the benefit of quality research in the formulation of policy, they might not use the research as the basis of policy, intervention strategies might not be logically evident from the research findings, and intervention strategies which seem evident might not be effective, efficient or feasible. Furthermore, policymakers' worldviews may lead them to reject research findings and intervention strategies which are not consistent with those worldviews. The article suggests that improvements in the relationship between theory, research and policy could be made by: (1) defining organizational concerns; (2) involving universities and professional organizations; (3) addressing theoretical and analytical complexities; (4) systematically identifying research priorities; (5) using systems analysis to obtain decision-making information; (6) developing measures of crime based on policy needs; and (7) using systems theory to guide policy change. References