The #stigma of #conviction: a Twitter thematic analysis

Abstract

Incarceration embodies challenges that are experienced directly through imprisonment, as well as in the enduring associations that follow an individual post release. To improve reintegration and rehabilitation efforts, it is critical to understand collective ideologies toward justice-involved individuals and their counterparts. Utilizing thematic analysis, we explored public perception of incarcerated populations via Twitter data (now known as X). A total of n = 676 Tweets were collected, with four emerging themes: Twitter as usual, Criminal justice opinion, Deserving to suffer and stereotypes, and Advocacy. Stigmatizing language was observed in all themes, demonstrating the role that pathologizing beliefs play in public response to incarcerated individuals. Our findings indicate that current perceptions on those associated with the criminal justice system, as well as on the system itself, appear to be supported by personal morals and lack of trust. Although stigma-laden narratives often dominate these themes, social networking sites such as Twitter can act as a powerful tool to use in advocacy efforts for vulnerable populations.