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Description: The study sought to extend the optimistic bias literature by documenting the phenomenon among perpetrators of crime. The theory originated from health psychology and is primarily used in health contexts. While a number of recent studies have documented optimistic bias among crime victims, the current study is the first to document the phenomenon among perpetrators. A small-scale survey of county jail inmates incarcerated for drug-related offenses, property-related offenses, and violent offenses (N = 60) found optimistic bias emerged for all three types of offenders. Participants were optimistic about not getting caught for the offense they were currently serving time and even more optimistic about not being incarcerated again in the future. Predictors of optimistic bias included self-esteem, self-efficacy, and marital status. These results suggest the need for different approaches to crime prevention and rehabilitation of inmates.
Suggested Citation:
Chapin, J., & Pierce, M. (2015). Optimistic bias and inmates. [Electronic Version]. Applied Psychology in Criminal Justice,
11(3), 185-192.
Keywords: optimistic bias; crime; incarceration
Date: Nov 30, 2015 | File Size: 270.17 Kb | Downloads: 1380