USE THE TEXTBOOK ATTACHED TO FIND THEORIES FROM CHAPTERs 4 through 8 only!!!
THEN ONLY USE GOOGLE SCHOLAR TO FIND THE REST OF THE SOURCES DO NOT USE ANYTHING OTHER THAN GOOGLE SCHOLAR AND ONE GOVERNMENT WEBSITE
Complete a research paper that includes the following:
First, research issues relating to a specific form of criminal offending (e.g., if focusing on substance abuse as your issue, get a little more specific — e.g., the opioid epidemic and ties to criminality). Include information that examines the nature and extent of the crime nationally as well as here in Central New York. Why should people care about this issue?
Next, dig into motivations for offending based on empirical research studies that examine risk factors, causes, etc. for that particular crime. Also, consider race, class, and other disparities that might exist in terms of offending behaviors.
Then, discuss two specific theories that can help us understand the given issue. For each, identify the theory, explain it in full, and then connect it to the offense (i.e., articulate how/why the elements of that given theory apply by linking theoretical principles to data, case information, etc.). Which, if any, is best? Why?
Following, talk about the consequences of the crime. What are they and who is affected?
Next, look into the respective responses to the crime. What kind of punishment is given and how/why is it imposed? Does it work as an effective deterrent? Why/Why not? Are there disparities among race, class, etc. in the ways our criminal justice system treats offenders/responds to crimes? Tell me what the data suggests in terms of current criminal justice approaches (e.g., are they working, should we incorporate more rehabilitative or restorative practices, are there differences based on one’s background, etc.?) and how theoretical thinking might help to enhance, supplement, replace, or otherwise strengthen solutions. Explain, for example, how your theories inform/shape solutions (based one or both of the theories selected) that might help address the problem, overcome existing issues, etc. to reduce recidivism, alleviate social ills, and/or address other criminal justice issues of concern. This should be clear and supported.
As part of this paper, you will need to include a proper introduction and conclusion, as noted in the syllabus. Your conclusion should include suggestions for addressing the crime and working toward a more just society based on the theories selected. Consider best practices and include examples of support by local agencies/partners that may help (please explain what they do/how they connect). A discussion of Part Two can be included here. Also, please note that all students are expected to deliver a presentation (in addition to submitting the required paper) that highlights their work and the steps outlined above.
Part Two:
“Do something!” Find and work with an agency in CNY (e.g., Safe Space CNY or Helio Health/’Cuse Recovery Center/HEAL Onondaga/Center for Community Alternatives or another approved agency) based on their needs to support our community and help those at-risk for (re)offending or those who may be harmed by existing policies/practices by engaging in an action/item they have requested for us to help out with (any one or more may be selected):
Donation Drives for Professional Attire – Gently used professional clothing can help stock our clothing closet – This should include items that are in good condition or new that can be worn on job interviews and/or to work.
For this second section, you will describe goals and objectives you created, how you worked toward meeting those goals and objectives with your action item/plan/implementation, and how you assessed whether your participations/action was successful.
