The (Mis)measurement of Crime

Introduction

Often, in an effort to measure crime and delinquency, the result is a mismeasurement. To avoid this mismeasurement, it is important to consider constraints in research: what they are, and why they are important for valid findings. Whether measurement of social phenomena is accurate can depend on the time and context of the data being measured. As societal views change, the meaning of the data can change with it. Therefore, it is important to select precise indicators when measuring abstract concepts, such as when trying to operationalize social phenomena.

Instructions:

In your main post:

Explain the necessary factors to consider before public opinion survey results can be trusted as a reputable criminal justice resource.
Discuss how you could use public opinion research in your current or future career path based on its reliability as a resource.
Examine the benefits public opinion research would bring to your sector of interest in the criminal justice field versus other more or less reputable research resources.

Special Instructions:

Create a 1 page essay in APA format according to the instructions above. Use 2 scholarly sources for references. Be sure to use in-text citations.

Solution Preview

THE MISMEASUREMENT OF CRIME

To fulfill their role in providing justice, criminal courts rely heavily on public information. However, this information should thoroughly be assessed to avoid mismeasurement of a crime. To validate public opinion as fit for use as a reputable criminal justice resource in court, criminologists should consider some factors, (Mosher, Miethe & Hart, 2010).

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