Chapter 13: Making Your Research Relevant

Why is research significant?

It expands knowledge, helps understand criminal justice outcomes, and provides useful information about programs.

Why is policy-relevant research important?

Because policies affect daily life and are not always based on the best research.

• ex: 1:100 Drug Law during War on Drugs

What is policy-relevant research?

Research that informs and influences policymakers to create, improve, or change policies.

What are two ways policy-relevant research is used?

1. To develop new policies

2. To improve existing policies

Can a single study change policy?

No, policy should not be based on one study alone.

What is a policy?

Principles, rules, and laws that guide decisions in a government or organization.

What is public policy?

Policies created and implemented by government agencies.

What are procedures?

Step-by-step instructions for carrying out a policy.

What are rules/regulations?

Expectations for behavior when following procedures.

What are guidelines?

Recommendations for how to act in specific situations.

Who are policymakers?

Individuals who create laws and policies at local, state, and federal levels.

What are the five stages of the policy process?

• Problem identification/agenda setting

• Policy formulation

• Policy adoption

• Policy implementation

• Policy evaluation

What is Stage 1: Problem identification/agenda setting?

When an issue is brought to policymakers’ attention, often due to a major event.

What is a focusing event?

A major event that draws public and policy attention to an issue.

What is Stage 2: Policy formulation?

The stage where different policy solutions are developed and debated.

What is Stage 3: Policy adoption?

When a policy is officially passed into law.

What is Stage 4: Policy implementation?

Putting a policy into action through rules, procedures, and guidelines.

What is Stage 5: Policy evaluation?

Assessing whether a policy is working and addressing the issue.

Where does research fit in the policy process?

It can influence all stages, especially problem identification, formulation, and evaluation.

Why do researchers struggle to influence policy?

Because policy decisions involve politics, compromise, and multiple stakeholders.

Give examples of controversial policies.

Habitual offender laws, sex offender registry, mandatory arrest laws.

Why is policy-relevant research important in criminal justice?

It ensures policies are informed by evidence rather than assumptions