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Criminal Genomic Pragmatism: Prisoners’ Representations of DNA Technology and Biosecurity
Joint Authors
Source
Issue
Vol. 2012, Issue 2012 (31 Dec. 2012), pp.1-5, 5 p.
Publisher
Hindawi Publishing Corporation
Publication Date
2012-06-25
Country of Publication
Egypt
No. of Pages
5
Main Subjects
Abstract EN
Within the context of the use of DNA technology in crime investigation, biosecurity is perceived by different stakeholders according to their particular rationalities and interests.
Very little is known about prisoners’ perceptions and assessments of the uses of DNA technology in solving crime.
Aim.
To propose a conceptual model that serves to analyse and interpret prisoners’ representations of DNA technology and biosecurity.
Methods.
A qualitative study using an interpretative approach based on 31 semi-structured tape-recorded interviews was carried out between May and September 2009, involving male inmates in three prisons located in the north of Portugal.
The content analysis focused on the following topics: the meanings attributed to DNA and assessments of the risks and benefits of the uses of DNA technology and databasing in forensic applications.
Results.
DNA was described as a record of identity, an exceptional material, and a powerful biometric identifier.
The interviewees believed that DNA can be planted to incriminate suspects.
Convicted offenders argued for the need to extend the criteria for the inclusion of DNA profiles in forensic databases and to restrict the removal of profiles.
Conclusions.
The conceptual model entitled criminal genomic pragmatism allows for an understanding of the views of prison inmates regarding DNA technology and biosecurity.
American Psychological Association (APA)
Machado, Helena& Silva, Susana. 2012. Criminal Genomic Pragmatism: Prisoners’ Representations of DNA Technology and Biosecurity. BioMed Research International،Vol. 2012, no. 2012, pp.1-5.
https://search.emarefa.net/detail/BIM-991786
Modern Language Association (MLA)
Machado, Helena& Silva, Susana. Criminal Genomic Pragmatism: Prisoners’ Representations of DNA Technology and Biosecurity. BioMed Research International No. 2012 (2012), pp.1-5.
https://search.emarefa.net/detail/BIM-991786
American Medical Association (AMA)
Machado, Helena& Silva, Susana. Criminal Genomic Pragmatism: Prisoners’ Representations of DNA Technology and Biosecurity. BioMed Research International. 2012. Vol. 2012, no. 2012, pp.1-5.
https://search.emarefa.net/detail/BIM-991786
Data Type
Journal Articles
Language
English
Notes
Includes bibliographical references
Record ID
BIM-991786