Research Methods for Criminology and Criminal Justice

Review
Using an excellent blend of methods, statistics, and theory, the Ellis, Hartley, and Walsh research methods book is a remarkable text that will definitely be valuable to beginning and advanced researchers. I applaud them for their ability to successfully apply research methods to real-world problems, while at the same time use research examples from a vast array of academic disciplines and topics worldwide. Their book should certainly be one that research methods instructors should consider adopting so that students have an all-encompassing methods experience! -- Chris Gibson, PhD., University of Florida
Research Methods in Criminal Justice and Criminology takes a subject matter that most students find inherently boring and makes it engaging, interesting, and inspiring. Their use of interdisciplinary examples puts a fresh spin on the standard cookie-cutter examples typically used in the explanation of research methods. Ellis, Hartley, and Walsh have created a book that explains difficult and complex material in a way that is easy to comprehend. I recommend this book to all students learning about research methods and to all professors who are teaching this challenging topic. -- Kevin M. Beaver, Florida State University
The authors offer an interdisciplinary approach of research that anchors on a broader spectrum of interests in methodology than most textbooks. Instead of solely focusing on criminal justice research, this book introduces the major social/behavioral science disciplines such as anthropology, sociology, economics, geography, and their relationship with criminal justice and criminology. I think it is a smart and thoughtful approach given the facts that majorities of research methods applied in CJ are borrowed from those closely related disciplines and I have no doubt that they will have continuing influence in CJ research. -- Ling Ren, Ph.D, Sam Houston State University
The second edition of Research Methods for Criminology and Criminal Justice is a core text for criminology and criminal justice research methods courses. This text offers a general foundation of knowledge that transcends particular topics or subject areas, allowing students to apply the methods and concepts discussed to a multitude of scenarios. Within the first five chapters, students learn (a) the philosophy behind scientific research, (b) the role of theory and hypotheses in the research process, (c) ethical issues in conducting research in our field, and (d) how research reports are structured. Thereafter, each new chapter will add information and examples that help students move toward a further understanding of research design and methodology that can be applied across the social and behavioral sciences to better understand social phenomena.