Description
1) Select one type of categorical violence that we studied this semester. If you would like to select a topic not on this list, you may do so upon my approval.
2) Determine and identify the theory or theories best associated with your selection.
3) Applying your own profession, brainstorm the ways in which the issue (i.e., the categorical violence you select) affects the workings of your respective organization/agency. If you do not work in the criminal justice or human services fields, please assume the role of an employee from an organization/agency of this kind (e.g., a police officer, a corrections officer, a probation officer, a prosecutor, a victim advocate, a crisis counselor, a community-based provider, etc.). In doing so, reflect on the following questions: What is the operational response of your organization/agency? In other words, what is your functional role in addressing the issue at hand? Is your role mandated by a law or regulation? If not, what defines your role (e.g., the bylaws and mission statement of a nonprofit organization)? Besides operational, what are the other angles from which you approach this issue (e.g., prevention programs, legislative action, policy, advocacy work, etc.) What are the specific constraints that your organization/agency faces to addressing the issue? What is needed to address the issue more effectively?
4) After considering the above questions, write a policy paper that identifies a new approach that your organization/agency can take to address the issue. For example, your approach may look to enhance something that already exists; create a new program; dismantle something not working; improve operational efficacy (internal procedures, protocols or policies); or restructure organizational efforts. Be creative! I encourage you to “think big” in developing your proposal.
Your policy paper should make clear how theory has informed your proposal. In other words, theory should be the foundation from which your proposal emerges, and you should draw from theory throughout the proposal. It is not enough to merely mention theory in your proposal; you must demonstrate that you have used theory to shape your proposal. Think of theory as the foundation of your proposal and the support structure that keeps it intact.
In your proposal, you must also 1) acknowledge the challenges you are likely to encounter when implementing your plan; 2) identify potential unintended consequences; and 3) explain how you will navigate the potential challenges and work to prevent unintended consequences.
Your paper should be a minimum of 1,800 words, using 12-point typeface and Times New Roman font. Double space your papers, and be sure use APA format, including an appropriately formatted cover page and reference page.
Grading: This assignment is worth 45% of your final grade. Your grade will be based on adherence to the guidelines set forth in the six categories below.
Student clearly demonstrates an understanding of violence/aggression theory and appropriately applies one or more theories to an example of categorical violence.
Student provides detailed answers to all of the questions posed by the instructor (see #3 above).
Student acknowledges, considers and addresses implementation impediments in his/her proposal:
Policy paper sets forth a creative, thoughtful, plausible and potentially impactful approach to addressing categorical violence — i.e., one that is informed by theory.
Policy paper demonstrates clarity, purpose, critical thinking, and graduate-level analysis.
Writing is organized in nature and reflects proper grammar, punctuation, and spelling.
Student appropriately makes use of APA format.
