Research Methods in Criminal Justice

Research Methods in Criminal Justice provides students with carefully selected articles that explores the scientific method of research within the field of criminal justice. The significant steps of the scientific method are detailed, and students also learn how research can influence policy and law in the criminal justice system. Students discover the language of research methods and cultivate an understanding of how various methods can and cannot be applied in criminal justice research.

Opening chapters address factors and conditions that influence the use of research in the criminal justice system, the steps and process of the scientific method, and ethical practices in criminal justice research. Selected readings cover the defining of concepts and creation of measurements, various sampling techniques, quantitative research design, qualitative research design, and the use of surveys. Students learn the importance of evaluation research, content analysis, and secondary data. Each chapter features discussion questions to stimulate critical thinking and foster valuable interaction with the material.

Developed to help students focus and learn from a different perspective, Research Methods in Criminal Justice is an ideal resource for foundational courses in criminal justice research methods.