NCJ Number
162611
Journal
International Journal of Comparative and Applied Criminal Justice Volume: 19 Issue: 1 Dated: (Spring 1995) Pages: 91-105
Date Published
1995
Length
15 pages
Annotation
This study examines Australian citizens' perceptions of the seriousness of white collar crime.
Abstract
Studies in the United States and Canada have challenged the commonly held belief that the public is indifferent to or somewhat ambivalent about white collar criminality. This study replicated a 1972 survey of the seriousness of 140 offenses to determine if Australian respondents have similar attitudes. Results show that the Australians queried do perceive these offenses as serious; the degree of seriousness depends on the impact on victims of the harm of particular types of offenses. Findings also support earlier researchers' observation that the seriousness rating of white collar crime has increased over time. In addition, these offenses and their impacts are more commonplace subjects dealt with in the mass media now than 20 or even 10 years ago. The author cites the need for increased funding to investigate and prosecute white collar offenders, and legislation or preventive measures to reduce the opportunity for offending. Tables, notes, references