Societal Reaction to the Release of Sex Offenders

Abstract

This qualitative study explored public views on the release of convicted sex offenders. A content analysis was conducted on the comments section of four newspaper articles about releases. One hundred and fifty-six comments were examined, and six prominent themes emerged including: Critiques of the criminal justice system, execution, life imprisonment, tattooing, race and physical disfigurement. Most comments were negative and voiced a desire for harsher punishment. Public perception of sex offenders largely reflected stereotyped media portrayals.

Faculty Mentor: Diane Symbaluk

Department: Sociology