Research Methods In Crime And Justice

This text offers a fresh, engaging approach to research methods for current and future criminal justice practitioners. Unlike competing books targeting criminology students, Withrow offers a wealth of cases including his experience as a Texas state trooper and as a professor to demonstrate that research skills are vital for success in the profession. Difficult concepts like multiple regression are woven into a clear sequence so that students practice all the core skills needed to conduct meaningful research. Unique ancillaries include an online Researcher’s Notebook that steps students with minimal instructor supervision through the design of a valid project, as well as full texts of journal articles keyed to challenging assignments.

Dr. Brian L. Withrow is Professor at Texas State University—San Marcos. Prior to joining the Texas State University faculty in 2009, Brian was an Associate Professor and Director of the Forensic Sciences Program at Wichita State University. While on the faculty at Wichita State University, Brian served one term as Mayor of Bel Aire, Kansas. From 1993 to 1999, Brian managed a police leadership development program at Sam Houston State University in Huntsville, Texas.

Prior to his scholarly career, Brian worked for the Texas Department of Public Safety. He started this part of his career in 1981 as a State Trooper in a rural part of the Texas Panhandle. During the nearly 13 years Brian was at the Department of Public Safety, he promoted to the rank of Training Officer, Inspector, and Bureau Commander.

Brian earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in Criminal Justice from Stephen F. Austin State University in 1981, his Master of Public Administration from Southwest Texas State University in 1993, and his Doctor of Philosophy in Criminal Justice from Sam Houston State University in 1999.

Brian lives on a farm near Medicine Lodge, Kansas with his wife Lisa. They have four grown children and four grandchildren. He spends most of his "off" time managing his growing honey bee apiary.