Year: 2024
Type: article
Abstract: Research indicates that crime-first language ("criminal") increases stigma, but there is limited evidence comparing person-first language ("person with a conviction") to other non-deviant terminology.Using two survey experiments, we test whether using person-first language in the employment context has a mimicry effect (i.e.people adopt language they are exposed to) and whether language has a stronger influence when paired with positive employment credentials.We do not find consistent evidence of mimicry.Respondents viewing a positive credential were more likely to use person-centered or professional language and positive credentials generally improved perceptions of the applicant.However, person-first language can cancel out beneficial credential effects compared to alternative language.When considering alternatives to crime-first language, two implications emerge: positive information is more consistently influential than the terminology used, and after establishing a person has a criminal record, substituting other identity labels (e.g.person, applicant) can further reduce stigma.
Source: Justice Quarterly
Authors: Megan Denver, Abby Ballou, Samuel E. DeWitt
Institutions: Northeastern University, American Institutes for Research
Language: English
Subfield: Sociology and Political Science
Field: Social Sciences
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
OpenAlex ID: W4393929662