Question 1

Methodological narcissists avoid subjects which do not lend themselves to their favored method.

Accepted Answer

Methodological narcissists are so fixated on their preferred research method that they may ignore or dismiss topics that cannot be studied using that method. They prioritize the method over the subject of their research.

Question 2

Our basic approach to criminal justice research in this course is supportive of the view that prediction is useless or impossible since all individuals are unique.

Accepted Answer

The statement is false. While it is true that individuals are unique, it is still possible to make predictions about their behavior and outcomes based on research and analysis of data. Criminal justice research often aims to identify patterns and risk factors that can help predict criminal behavior and improve decision-making in the justice system.

Question 3

Martinson later retracted his "nothing works" critique of corrections research.

Accepted Answer

Martinson did retract his "nothing works" statement and acknowledged the limitations of his earlier research.

Question 4

A deductive process proceeds from general theories to specific facts.

Accepted Answer

This is the basic definition of deductive reasoning, where a general theory or premise is used to draw a specific conclusion or prediction.

Question 5

The dependent variable is the variable one is attempting to predict.

Accepted Answer

The dependent variable is the outcome or response variable that is being predicted. It is the variable that is assumed to be affected by another variable, which is called the independent variable.

Question 6

The null hypothesis is the predicted expected relationship and cannot be tested.

Accepted Answer

The null hypothesis can be tested and is typically a statement that there is no significant difference between two groups or variables. It serves as a baseline or starting point for comparison with the alternative hypothesis.

Question 7

It is standard practice in research to refer to the variable one wishes to predict as being the dependent or outcome variable.

Accepted Answer

This is correct. The variable that is being predicted or explained is referred to as the dependent variable or outcome variable.

Question 8

Error is ever present even in the best of research in criminal justice.

Accepted Answer

Error is inherent in any type of research, and criminal justice research is no exception. Despite efforts to control for biases and errors, researchers must acknowledge that error is present and take steps to minimize their impact on the findings.

Question 9

Concepts are converted into variables through operationali zation.

Accepted Answer

Operationalization is the process of defining variables in terms of how they will be measured or manipulated in a research study. It involves translating abstract concepts into specific indicators or variables that can be observed or measured. Therefore, concepts are converted into variables through operationalization.

Question 10

Those concerned with good research should be objective, vigilant, and sympathetic.

Accepted Answer

Objective, vigilant, and sympathetic researchers are able to conduct thorough and unbiased research, while also being considerate of the well-being of participants and stakeholders involved in the research.

Question 11

Most criminal justice textbooks are overly theoretical and lack an applied quality.

Accepted Answer

Many criminal justice textbooks balance theory with practical applications, including case studies, real-world examples, and discussions on the implementation of theoretical concepts in practical settings.

Question 12

Martinson's review of criminal justice programs concluded that "nothing works".

Accepted Answer

Martinson's review of criminal justice programs is commonly referred to as the "nothing works" doctrine, as he argued that no rehabilitation programs had shown significant success in reducing crime rates among offenders.

Question 13

It is essential that all research projects follow the same specific steps and be quantitative in nature.

Accepted Answer

The answer of It is essential that all research projects...

Question 14

According to the text, most criminal justice research findings are simply a matter of "common sense".

Accepted Answer

While some criminal justice research findings may align with common sense, many are the result of rigorous scientific study and analysis. These findings can reveal nuances and complexities in criminal justice issues that may not be immediately apparent or intuitive.

Question 15

Researchers universally agree that quantitative research is the only valid form of research.

Accepted Answer

This statement is false. While quantitative research is a widely used approach, qualitative research can also provide valuable insights and understanding of complex phenomena. Both forms of research have their strengths and limitations and can be used in conjunction with each other to gain a more comprehensive understanding of a topic.

Question 16

Theory devoid of method is preferable to method devoid of theory.

Accepted Answer

Theory and method are interdependent; a balance between the two is essential for effective research and application. Theory without method lacks practical applicability, while method without theory lacks direction and purpose.

Question 17

Most of the research methods employed in criminal justice are borrowed from and shared with the other social sciences.

Accepted Answer

The answer of Most of the research methods employed in...

Question 18

"Pure research" is a higher form of research than "applied research".

Accepted Answer

This statement is subjective and cannot be universally applied. Pure research and applied research are both valuable forms of research, and one is not necessarily higher or better than the other. They have different objectives and goals and can be used in different contexts.

Question 19

Generally, theory is concerned with questions of "why" while methodology deals with "what is".

Accepted Answer

Theory is focused on understanding the reasons behind phenomena, explaining why things happen the way they do, while methodology is concerned with the specific tools, techniques, and procedures used to gather and analyze data, essentially addressing the question of what the current state of knowledge is and how we can expand it.

Question 20

Theory is as necessary in the production of valid criminal justice research as method.

Accepted Answer

Theory provides the foundation for criminal justice research, guiding the development of hypotheses, sample selection, data collection, and analysis. Method alone is insufficient in generating valid research without a theoretical framework to guide the research process.

Quiz 1: Introduction to Criminal Justice