Criminal justice major you may have read articles about domestic violence victims
During your studies at Monroe College you are taking classes to learn about/within your major course of study as preparation to enter your future career. As you progress in your major you have probably read about incidents in print/online newspapers or magazines that make you question decisions/policies within your future industry.
When you learn about these incidents you think to yourself: "this could have been prevented", "it could have been handled better", "why don't they develop a policy to prevent this from happening?", "isn't there a more efficient way to handle this?" - the list of questions could be endless.
For example, as a criminal justice major you may have read articles about domestic violence victims who refuse to press charges against his/her/their abuser and then are murdered. Maybe you thought to yourself: "Why wasn't the abuser arrested even though the victim didn't want to press charges"?
Sample Solution
You're absolutely right. As students in our chosen fields, we often encounter news stories or articles that raise questions about decisions, policies, and practices within our future careers. Here's how we can approach those situations and turn them into learning opportunities:
Critical Thinking and Analysis:
- Identify the Issue: Pinpoint the specific problem or incident that sparked your reaction. What went wrong? Why does it concern you?
- Consider Different Perspectives: Don't jump to conclusions. Explore the situation from various viewpoints. Consider the victim, the perpetrator, bystanders, and the system involved.
Full Answer Section
- What Could Have Been Done Differently?: Brainstorm potential solutions or preventative measures. Research existing policies and identify any gaps.
- Are There Legal Constraints?: Understand the legal framework that governs your field. Some actions may be limited by law, even if they seem like common sense solutions.
- Research Existing Policies: Is there a policy already in place? If so, how could it be improved? If not, is there a rationale for not having one?
- Learn from Experts: Look up research papers, articles, or news interviews with experts in your field. How do they address these issues?
- Class Discussion: Bring up the topic in your major-specific classes. Discuss it with your professors and classmates. They may have valuable insights.
- Start Small: Even as a student, you can make a difference. Volunteer for relevant organizations, write to your local representatives, or initiate awareness campaigns.
- Critical Thinking: Why might the victim be hesitant to press charges? (Fear of retaliation, financial dependence, cultural norms)
- Policy Analysis: Research mandatory arrest policies for domestic violence. What are the arguments for and against?
- Expert Opinions: Look for articles by legal experts or domestic violence advocates on these issues.
- Class Discussion: Bring up the case and discuss its complexities with your criminal justice professor.
- Taking Action: Research local resources for domestic violence victims. Volunteer with a domestic violence shelter or hotline as a student.