NCJ Number
78416
Date Published
1976
Length
87 pages
Annotation
This is a study of the deviant's 'reverse stereotype' of the dominant society. The reverse stereotype is functionally defined as the means by which the labeled deviant maintains a favorable self-concept.
Abstract
Two sets of the Rokeach Value Surveys, Form D, were administered to samples of prison inmates, adult probationers, and parolees who were in the correctional system of a rural Western State. The felons were asked to both rank order their own values and order them as they believed most people in society would rank them. The values which had significantly different medians were used as the key terms in describing the criminals' stereotype of 'society.' Findings indicate that the three felon groups had a fairly consistent stereotype of society, although inmates had some significant divergences not shared by probationers and parolees. The felons imputed to society a relative disinterest in inner harmony, self-respect, wisdom, and true friendship. They saw society as giving great importance to a comfortable life and social recognition but as lacking in love and forgiveness. Other measures show that inmates were more alienated from what they perceived as societal values than other groups and that parolees were the least alienated. Similarly, felons held more negative opinions of societal values than did a sampled civilian group, although both felons and civilians shared the same value system. Data tables and about 50 references are supplied. Survey instruments and a discussion of the accuracy of felons' perceptions of societal values are appended. (Author abstract modified)