NCJ Number
247566
Journal
Journal of Quantitative Criminology Volume: 30 Issue: 2 Dated: June 2014 Pages: 317-347
Date Published
June 2014
Length
31 pages
Annotation
Despite the dramatic expansion of the U.S. correctional system in recent decades, little is known about the relative effectiveness of commonly used sanctions on recidivism.
Abstract
Despite the dramatic expansion of the U.S. correctional system in recent decades, little is known about the relative effectiveness of commonly used sanctions on recidivism. The goal of this paper is to address this research gap, and systematically examine the relative impacts on recidivism of four main types of sanctions: probation, intensive probation, jail, and prison. Data on convicted felons in Florida were analyzed and propensity score matching analyses were used to estimate relative effects of each sanction type on 3-year reconviction rates. Estimated effects suggest that less severe sanctions are more likely to reduce recidivism. The findings raise questions about the effectiveness of tougher sanctioning policies for reducing future criminal behavior. Implications for future research, theory, and policy are also discussed. Abstract published by arrangement with Springer.