Public Perceptions of Criminal Behavior

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Abstract
The literature on public perceptions of criminal behavior is reviewed in an attempt to summarize the main trends and their significance for future research and correctional policy. Four key aspects of deviance perception are identified-opinion, intensity of reaction, social definition, and societal reactions-and the studies reviewed are classified accordingly. It is concluded that strength of religiosity is an important factor mediating perceptions of deviance. However, in comparison to the extensive work in perceptions of mental illness, perceptions of crime have rarely been found to be affected by the various social class variables. A broad consensus concerning the severity of traditional criminal behavior has been found in many studies. Lack of consensus is found concerning behavior which is more on the fringe of traditional crime, such as victimless crimes and some white-collar crimes.

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