Criminal Careers and Communities in the United States: An Identity Network Perspective

Cynthia Zhang and Meredith Ille's book explores the interactions between inmates' identities, social networks, and the criminal justice system, using interviews, focus group discussions, and surveys to understand criminal behavior. It provides a valuable perspective on the course of a criminal career and reentry into the community.

Format: Hardback
Length: 238 pages
Publication date: 15 July 2023
Publisher: Lexington Books

Gender, race, and community are just a few of the significant factors that shape a person's interaction with the criminal justice system. In their groundbreaking book, Cynthia Zhang and Meredith Ille delve deep into the lives of current and former inmates through a series of interviews, focus group discussions, and surveys. Their objective is to gain a better understanding of criminal behavior and the factors that contribute to it.

This book is a crucial resource for anyone seeking to comprehend the entire trajectory of a criminal career, from the initial offense to the decision to desist from criminal activity and ultimately reintegrating into the community. What sets this book apart is its unique identity network perspective, which combines identity theory and social network analysis to shed light on the complex interplay between inmates' identities and social networks. By employing this approach, the authors are able to better understand, predict, and mediate criminal behavior.

This book holds immense value for scholars and researchers in the fields of criminology, criminal justice, sociology, and psychology. It provides valuable insights into the complex dynamics that shape criminal behavior and offers practical strategies for addressing and mitigating these issues. Whether you are an academic, practitioner, or simply interested in understanding the complexities of the criminal justice system, this book is a must-read.

Weight: 454g
Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781793648884