Project Summary:
In this project, Professors Singer and Kokkalera examine discretionary release processes in parole hearings for juvenile lifers. The primary goal of this research is to understand legal decision-making that leads to the discretionary release of juvenile lifers. Through narrative analysis, the research team aims to understand how language is used as a source of power and control and how dangerousness may be racialized.
Project Description:
Data is collected from Massachusetts parole board hearings. The research team will examine video recorded hearings, make personal observations of hearings, and perform a narrative analysis of decision statements. The research team will use this data to examine the life course of juvenile lifers, and the legal decision-making that leads to discretionary release.
