Justice in Genderland: Through a Parole Looking Glass

Abstract

Based on observations of parole hearings and interviews with participants, this article considers the role of gender in parole decisions. Analysis of these data suggests that male prisoners are expected to accept responsibility for their wrongdoing, while female prisoners may diminish their responsibility by presenting themselves as victims. Therefore, when male bikers present themselves as men who are both responsible for their crimes and for the well-being of their families, they improve their chances of parole. When male sex offenders shirk their responsibility by portraying themselves as victims of female children, sex trade workers, and prosecutors, they reduce their chances of parole. However, when female drug traffickers present themselves as victims of male drug dealers, they increase their chances of parole. These findings build on and contribute to the scholarship on gendered expectations, gendered biographies, and responsibility as a gendered accomplishment.