Social and Behavioral Sciences Commons^™

Targeting The "Absence" In A Desistance Framework : Balancing Risk And Rehabilitation In Mandated Criminal Background Check Employment Decisions, Megan Denver

Legacy Theses & Dissertations (2009 - 2024)

Recent research efforts have documented resistance from employers in hiring individuals with criminal records. In response, advocates and policymakers have implemented strategies ranging from grassroots movements that delay criminal record inquiries to federal guidance that directs decision makers to conduct “individualized assessments.” However, it is not clear precisely what information employers actually are (or should be) seeking when they conduct criminal background checks. Furthermore, there may be a catch-22: while employment might promote desistance, applicants may need to demonstrate that they do not pose an undue risk before being able to secure a job or license (Maruna 2009). Since desistance …