Effects of Self-Injurious Thoughts and Behaviors on Public Perceptions of Offenders: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Abstract Self-injurious thoughts and behaviors (SITB) are prevalent within the criminal justice system, and formal justice involvement exacerbates SITB risk. Nevertheless, there is a lack of understanding about public perceptions of offenders with SITB. Using a sample of 2,097 U.S. residents, this randomized controlled trial evaluates public perceptions of relevant criminal justice outcomes and offender characteristics when an offender exhibits or reports SITB. Participants were more likely to endorse arrest for offenders–particularly violent offenders–who exhibited or reported SITB. Respondents were also more likely to believe offenders who exhibited or reported SITB–particularly violent offenders–would recidivate. SITB was associated with perceptions of increased dangerousness to self and others, which were explanatory mechanisms for why SITB was associated with endorsement for arrest and perceptions of increased likelihood of recidivism. These findings offer important insights into the general concern from the public to maintain public health and safety. Policy implications and future directions are discussed.