Question

The broken windows theory is integrated into law enforcement strategies across the United States. Improper implementation of this policy has resulted in discrimination against people of lower socioeconomic status, minorities, and the mentally ill. Many of these individuals obtain criminal records. Most states restrict the voting rights of felons. Which type of discrimination does this scenario describe ?

• A. The restriction of franchise for felons is a result of past-in-present discrimination.
• B. The restriction of franchise for felons is a result of side-effect discrimination.
• C. The restriction of franchise for felons is a result of individual discrimination.
• D. The restriction of franchise for felons is a result of institutional discrimination.

Answer 1

Answer:

B. The restriction of franchise for felons is a result of side-effect discrimination.

• Side-effect discrimination occurs when decisions of linked institutions create indirect and unintended structural discrimination.
• Individual discrimination does not apply to this scenario. No one individual is discriminating against these groups of people.
• Past-in-present discrimination is the result of direct discrimination against a group that indirectly causes current discrimination against the same group.