Question

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which of the following is an example of how criminological research affects public policy?

a. a researcher found that increasing educational opportunities for inmates leads to lower rates of recidivism. during the next legislative session, no funds were allocated for prison educational programs.

b. a researcher found that diverting low - level offenders out of the criminal justice system significantly reduced recidivism. after the results were publicized, several jurisdictions created diversion programs for minor offenders.

c. a study was conducted that found that a decrease in taxes spurs economic growth. after the results were publicized, several state legislatures passed tax cuts.

d. after observing that youth crime in the community has increased, a local community center established a midnight basketball program in an effort to reduce youth crime.

Explanation:

• Option A: Research showing educational opportunities lower recidivism, but no funds allocated, so no policy change from research. Eliminate.
• Option B: Criminological research on diverting low - level offenders reducing recidivism leads to jurisdictions creating diversion programs (public policy change). This fits.
• Option C: Study on taxes and economic growth, not criminological research. Eliminate.
• Option D: Community center action, not public policy change from criminological research. Eliminate.

Answer:

B. A researcher found that diverting low - level offenders out of the criminal justice system significantly reduced recidivism. After the results were publicized, several jurisdictions created diversion programs for minor offenders.