The goal of this paper is demonstrate the connect between theory and practice. Whether it is explicit or not, every program and policy in the criminal justice system is based upon some theory or assumption concerning the nature of human behavior. At the same time, programs which are not effective tend not to be based on theory or are be based on poorly articulated theory (ignoring the possibility of ineffective implementation). In order to promote the use of effective programs and discourage the use of ineffective programs, the National Institute of Justice maintains a database of programs and their associated evidence/support. In general, programs are described as “effective”, “promising”, or “no effect”, based on the research that has been done to evaluate them. This database can be found here: https://www.crimesolutions.gov/ For this paper, choose a program (not a practice) that is described as “effective” or “promising”. Ideally, you should choose one that has multiple green or yellow checkmarks (a single checkmark means that only research from a single study is supporting their effectiveness conclusions). Further, since we are focused on theories of crime, you should limit your choice to the following topics: any program from the crime and crime prevention section or any program specific to delinquency prevention. Once you have selected an effective or promising program, the next step is to describe the program. What are the programs goals? And how does the program attempt to accomplish its goals? Who is the target population of the program, or in other words, who is supposed to receive the program? How long does the program last, and what are the expected outcomes? Who is in charge of implementing the program? Once you have explained how the program is designed, and what its expected outcomes are, identify the theory or theories underlying its design. In other words, which theory or theories is the program based on? Are there elements of the program that do not appear to be based on any theory at all? Do not simply state that principle X is based on theory Y. You should explain exactly how each principle relates to its underlying theory. You should name and link to the program in your paper, and cite any research your reference. Pro tip: When you click on the program link on the website, you can scroll down the sub-heading “evidence-base” and “additional resources” to find studies and research that will likely describe the theoretical foundations of the program, in addition to assessing its effectiveness. Due May 13th. CRM 320 Paper One Grading Rubric Objective Points Possible Describe the program • What is the name of the program? (6) • Is it effective or promising? (6) • Who does the program target? (8) • Who is responsible for implementing the program? (8) • What are the goals of the program? (10) • How are these goals accomplished? (10) • How long does the program last? (8) 56 Explain the underlying theory • Does the program claim to draw upon one or more theories? If so, which? (8) • Regardless of claims, does the program appear to draw upon a theory or theories they do not claim? (3) • Are there elements of the program that do not appear to be based on any theory at all? (15) • To which theory does each program element relate or appear to relate? (15) • Explain how each program element relates to the identified theory. (15) 56 Grammar • Correct grammar, syntax, and punctuation. (4) • Include citations in the style of your choice. (4) 8 TOTAL 120
