Theories in Research 467

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Indiana Wesleyan University, Marion *

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-467

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Sociology

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Feb 20, 2024

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docx

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1 Theories in Research DaWonda L Mack Indiana Wesleyan University CRJ-467-01B: Research Meth & Analysis CRJ Dr. Raymond K. Edwards February 19, 2024
2 Theories in Research Understanding historical theories related to racial bias in the criminal justice system is crucial for addressing systemic inequalities and promoting justice and equity. Two prominent theories, systemic racism, and implicit bias, shed light on different aspects of how racial biases operate within societal structures and individual perceptions. This discussion will delve into each theory, examining its definitions, historical contexts, empirical evidence, and implications for addressing racial bias in the criminal justice system. Systemic Racism Theory: The article "Systemic And Structural Racism: Definitions, Examples, Health Damages, And Approaches To Dismantling" by Paula A. Braveman et al., published in February 2022, delves into the pervasive and deeply ingrained nature of systemic and structural racism in various societal systems and institutions. Systemic racism theory posits that racism is deeply embedded within societal systems, laws, policies, and practices, perpetuating widespread unfair treatment and oppression of people of color. One key concept within this theory is that racial disparities are structural rather than solely individual or attitudinal. For example, historical practices such as redlining, which systematically denied housing loans to Black communities, have had enduring effects on wealth accumulation and neighborhood segregation. Even after explicit discriminatory measures are abolished, systemic racism continues to operate through subtle mechanisms, such as biased policing and sentencing practices in the criminal justice system. The disproportionate incarceration rates of people of color, particularly Black and Indigenous individuals, illustrate how systemic racism permeates the criminal justice system, perpetuating cycles of disadvantage and marginalization.
3 Furthermore, systemic racism theory highlights the interconnectedness of various societal sectors and systems in perpetuating racial inequalities. For instance, disparities in access to quality education, healthcare, and employment opportunities intersect with the criminal justice system, exacerbating racial disparities in incarceration rates and outcomes. Addressing systemic racism requires comprehensive strategies that target not only the criminal justice system but also other intersecting systems, such as housing, education, and healthcare. This multifaceted approach acknowledges the complex web of factors contributing to racial disparities and emphasizes the need for coordinated efforts across different sectors and levels of society. It explains how systemic and structural racism is not always explicit or conscious but is embedded in laws, policies, practices, and beliefs that perpetuate unfair treatment and oppression of people of color. The article provides numerous examples, including residential segregation, biased policing and sentencing in the criminal justice system, and environmental injustice, illustrating how these forms of racism lead to adverse health outcomes for marginalized communities. Moreover, it suggests approaches to dismantling systemic and structural racism, emphasizing the need for mutually reinforcing actions across multiple sectors and acknowledging the crucial first step of recognizing their existence, Braveman, P., Arkin, E., Proctor, D., Kauh, T., & Holm, N. (2022, February) . Implicit Bias Theory: In contrast to systemic racism theory, implicit bias theory focuses on the subconscious attitudes and stereotypes that influence individual behavior, often without conscious awareness. Implicit biases are automatic associations formed through repeated exposure to societal messages and representations, leading individuals to unintentionally discriminate against certain groups, including racial minorities, women, and LGBTQ+ individuals. The Stanford Encyclopedia of
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