Chapter 11 - Processing and Sentencing of Female Offendes - Key Terms

Key terms from Stacy L Mallicoat's Women and Crime: The Essentials

Chivalry

The medieval knightly code of conduct that emphasized bravery, honor, protection of the weak, and courtesy. Today, the term generally refers to old-fashioned, polite, and unselfish behavior—especially respectful, gentlemanly actions shown by men toward women.

Evil women hypothesis

Female offenders can face harsher treatment than men in the criminal justice system. Because they commit the “double standard” of breaking the law and violating traditional societal gender norms, these women are viewed as exceptionally deviant or “unnatural”.

Gender-neutral laws

Legal frameworks that treat all individuals equally regardless of their gender, avoiding gender-specific language and sex-based distinctions.

Legal factors

The laws, regulations, and legal precedents that govern how individuals or organizations must operate within a jurisdiction.