Abstract
Although it has been argued that sentencing guidelines reduce the favorable treatment afforded female offenders, only one study has directly theoretically assessed the impact of guidelines on sentencing outcomes for men versus women. This study examines the influence of guidelines on the outcomes of male and female defendants sentenced in Pennsylvania by examining three periods, including one period during which guidelines were suspended. Results indicate that female, compared to male, offenders were less likely to be incarcerated in jail or prison and received shorter sentences in all periods; differences were not greatest when guidelines were suspended. Findings suggest that Pennsylvania's structured sentencing model has not affected the sex—sentencing relationship in that state.
Original language | American English |
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Journal | Journal of Contemporary Criminal Justice |
Volume | 24 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - Jun 19 2008 |
Keywords
- gender
- sentencing
- sentencing guidelines
- sex
DC Disciplines
- Legal Studies
- Social and Behavioral Sciences
- Criminology and Criminal Justice