Constructing Domestic Violence Through Arresting Officer Narratives

Knight Research Scholars Program Project Constructing Domestic Violence Through Arresting Officer Narratives

Learn about this research project, meet the faculty and student researchers, review participation expectations, and check current availability.

Project Availability

Team Size
8 team members
Open Spots
2 spots open
Affiliations
College of Sciences
Semester
Fall 2026
Team Leader
Faculty Mentor

  • Alison Cares, PhD

Team Member Qualifications

Applicants should have: (1) access to Zoom, OneDrive, Microsoft Excel, and reliable internet; (2) availability of at least two hours per week during the Fall 2026 semester; (3) strong attention to detail and the ability to identify inconsistencies or errors in data; (4) strong communication skills, particularly a willingness to ask questions when guidance or clarification is needed; (5) an interest in quantitative research, law and society, domestic violence, or the criminal justice system; (6) a strong work ethic and ability to complete assigned tasks independently; and (7) willingness to learn basic data cleaning and statistical analysis procedures.

Description

This project examines decision-making in domestic violence cases at first appearance, with a particular focus on how information contained in arrest affidavits is associated with judicial decisions such as bond and conditions of release. The project uses a quantitative dataset constructed from court records, arrest affidavits, and first appearance documentation from misdemeanor domestic violence cases in Orange County, Florida.

Research assistants will primarily assist with preparing the dataset for analysis. Tasks may include reviewing and cleaning coded data, checking cases for accuracy and consistency, resolving discrepancies between source documents and the dataset, creating or recoding variables, conducting descriptive analyses, and assisting with statistical analysis and interpretation.

This project is best suited for students interested in sociology, criminology, law and society, domestic violence, quantitative research, or data analysis. Prior research or statistical experience is helpful but not required. All tasks can be completed remotely.