Month/Year of Graduation

5-2026

Degree Name

Bachelor of Arts (B.A.)

Department

Psychology

First Advisor

Sam Clinkinbeard

Abstract

Labeling theory hypothesized that when someone is labeled as deviant in a society, they are marginalized because of that label. In the criminal justice system, this marginalization is reinforced through sentencing guidelines and correctional practices that extract individuals from their communities and place them under supervision. However, community corrections differ from traditional incarceration because individuals are allowed to remain in their communities while working on rehabilitation if they remain compliant with their court-ordered conditions. This structure allows for reintegration and creates opportunities for personal growth that may be inhibited by mitigating factors.  

These social and personal factors can influence an individual’s ability to succeed while on probation. These factors include but are not limited to employment opportunities, stable housing, histories of mental illness, substance use disorders (SUDs), and the individual’s capacity to comply with their probation terms. In many cases, these barriers may reinforce criminal labels and contribute to self-fulfilling prophecies, in which individuals internalize negative societal expectations regarding their criminal status. As a result, probation outcomes may be shaped not only by individual behavior but by broader social perceptions and system barriers. 

This study examined probation officers’ perceptions of their clients and their professional responsibilities to better understand how labeling may influence probation experiences and outcomes. Additionally, this study explored officers’ perceptions regarding mitigating factors that contribute to either success or failure with community corrections.

Comments

Reviewed and passed for accessibility

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