Factor analysis applied to magnitude estimates of punishment Seriousness: Patterns of individual differences

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This research makes use of factor analysis to locate important dimensions of individual differences in perceptions of legal punishments. A sample of 152 recently arrested persons provided magnitude estimates of the seriousness of several types and levels of punishment. A factor analysis of the data...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Author: McClelland, Kent A. (Author)
Contributors: Alpert, Geoffrey P.
Format: Electronic Article
Language:English
Published: 1985
In: Journal of quantitative criminology
Year: 1985, Volume: 1, Issue: 3, Pages: 307-318
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Keywords:
slope and response-level difference
perceptual dimension
Deterrence theory
psychophysical scaling
Description
Summary:This research makes use of factor analysis to locate important dimensions of individual differences in perceptions of legal punishments. A sample of 152 recently arrested persons provided magnitude estimates of the seriousness of several types and levels of punishment. A factor analysis of the data showed that the major dimensions of individual differentiation were in responses to (a) lengthy periods of imprisonment; (b) several punishments judged less serious, including short periods in jail or on probation; and (c) fines. Regressions of the factor scores on individual characteristics are reported, and the implications of the analysis for deterrence theory are discussed.
ISSN:1573-7799
DOI:10.1007/BF01064638