I need to find evidence that supports or does not support requiring sex offenders to be sterilized before being released from prison.

Answer

The School of Justice Studies Guide contains links to library databases that can be searched to find articles and books on this topic.  Click on "Criminal Justice" on the left side to view recommended resources.

Below is a list of selected library databases to begin research on this topic.

  1. Justice Studies via ProQuest
  2. Associates Programs Source Plus via EBSCO
  3. National Criminal Justice Reference Service
  4. SocINDEX with Full Text via EBSCO (covers sociology)

If you need information on both sides of any issue, try using the two databases below. Both offer overview reports on various topics and generally give point and counterpoint arguments.

  1. Points of View Reference Center
  2. CQ Researcher

Database Searching Techniques

You will get the best results when you use keywords when searching a library database.  Before beginning a database search, consider developing a list of keywords -- a search menu-- describing the concepts you want in articles.  For example:

Example of a search menu using keywords such as "sex offenders" and "convicted sex offenders".

Then use Boolean connectors to include some or all of these terms into your search.

OR Connector - Use this connector to include synonyms or related terms in your search. 

For example:    sterilization OR castration         (articles retrieved will have one term or the other)

AND Connector - Use this connector to link your ideas. 

For example:   castration AND "sex offender" AND recidivism        (articles will have all three terms in the same article)

Next, log into one of the recommended library databases and select Advanced Search.  Using the "Advanced Search" option will give you an easy way to enter your search terms using Boolean Connectors.

Once your search has been entered, click Search. Next, click on the PDF or HTML links listed under the article titles in the results list to view in full text.

View the video below for more information about effectively creating a search in a library database.

Media

  • Last Updated Feb 27, 2024
  • Views 123
  • Answered By Bethany Marston, Learning Services Coordinator

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