Citation

Sprang G. J. Soc. Serv. Res. 1997; 22(3): 73-84.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1997, Informa - Taylor and Francis Group)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

This study examines 103 Victim Impact Panel attendees and 75 comparison group respondents who had been convicted of drunk driving offenses. A pre- and post-test measure developed by the author was administered to both groups to determine offender attitudes about drinking and driving. Results indicate a lower recidivism rate in VIP participants as opposed to comparison group subjects and those receiving other sanctions as cited in the literature. 2-Way ANOVA and paired T-test analysis revealed significant changes in attitudes regarding the VIP attendees intention to continue drinking and driving, the consideration of consequences and whether or not DUI/DWI should be considered a crime and recidivism. These results did not hold true for the comparison group. There were no demonstrated significant differences in attitudes toward the fairness of DUI/DWI laws, the accidental nature of drunk driving offenses or the advisability of DWI education as an alternative sanction in either group.