The Power of Language in Criminal Justice

Language (more specifically the labels, terms, and words we use) plays a critical role in shaping how we understand and engage with the world. The words we use not only shape the subject matter we talk about, but also carry political weight, that affects  perceptions and reinforces power dynamics. In this context, debates about terminology are not just academic exercises—they have real consequences for how issues are framed and addressed in policy and practice.

The Misunderstanding of Terms

It’s tempting to attribute misunderstandings surrounding the labels, terms and words we and others use solely to differences in age, culture, education, gender,  ethnic/racial background, national origin, but the issue is far more complex. Disagreements about words and terms occur in numerous contexts, and these disputes can arise for various interrelated reasons. These include, but are not limited to:

Lack of Knowledge or Expertise: In many cases, people do not know the correct definitions of terms. This may due to poor or a lack of education or exposure to specialized fields. Thus misapplication of terms in this case, reflects a lack of literacy in the subject matter, and is unintentional.

Overconfidence in Misunderstanding: Sometimes, individuals are aware of the proper definitions but choose to disregard them. This may stem from an overconfidence in their own understanding, laziness, or a refusal to acknowledge expert knowledge.

Political Sensitivity and Correctness: Occasionally people (e.g., activists)  adopt popular terminology in an effort to be politically sensitive (i.e., correct) or to align with current societal trends. This approach, while intended to reduce offense, can introduce ambiguities or further complicate discourse, particularly when the new terms lack consensus or clarity.

Influence of Non-experts: Amateurs may have the power to shape discourse through public platforms. Meanwhile experts either lack the same opportunities or choose not to engage. As a result, the terminology used by non-experts may gain traction, even when it conflicts with established definitions in various fields.

Carelessness: Occasionally, people use terms incorrectly out of carelessness or convenience. Until they are corrected or experience embarrassment, they may not see a need to learn the correct terms. This casual approach can perpetuate misunderstandings.

The Politics of Language

In short, terminology is never neutral; it typically reflects and reinforces power dynamics. Those in positions of authority, influence or power often determine which terms are accepted within a field or context, while marginalized individuals and groups may struggle to have their preferred language recognized and used. In the field of criminology and criminal justice, for example, word choice is particularly significant, as it shapes the narratives (i.e., the stories we tell ourselves and others) surrounding criminal behavior, justice, and punishment.

For instance, consider the terminology used to describe individuals in the correctional system: convict, prisoner, inmate, and incarcerated person. Technically these terms are not interchangeable—they carry different connotations (among different groups) and often reflect differing ideological perspectives. Although many academic criminologists may collapse the terms convict, prisoner and inmate, people who are incarcerated and correctional personnel may see important distinctions among these labels. Meanwhile many prison activists feel that terms like prisoner or inmate are dehumanizing, thus they often push for language that they argue humanizes those in the criminal justice system (i.e., person centered language). The struggle over which term to use is not just a linguistic debate, but a reflection of deeper disagreements about the nature of the criminal justice system itself.

Language in Academic Publishing

The power of language is not just manifested in in public discourse, or in the classroom, but extends to scholarly work as well.  Ideally, peer reviewers and editors play a gatekeeping function, ensuring that authors use terms in a precise and appropriate manner, and that any misapplications are corrected before publication.However, despite this vetting mechanism, terms that are poorly defined or misapplied occasionally make it into published works.

Not only does this create confusion, but this is particularly concerning in criminology/criminology, where academic research attempts to inform public policy. When key terms in criminological literature are used ambiguously or incorrectly, it can distort public understanding and policymaking. For example, the interchangeable use of rehabilitation and reform in discussions about correctional practices can lead to mixed messages about the objectives of criminal justice interventions.

Language and the Criminal Justice System

How does this debate play out in the dominant branches of the criminal justice system?

In the field of corrections, the debate over terms such as convict, prisoner, and inmate typically highlights the tensions between activists and criminologists. Activists often advocate for language that reduces stigma, while criminologists, for the sake of clarity, historical continuity, or conformity to legal definitions, may adhere to more traditional terminology.

Similarly, in policing, terms like cop versus police officer can carry different connotations. Depending on the context, the term cop might be seen as informal or even derogatory, while police or law enforcement officer carries an air of professionalism. Yet, some activists and community groups may prefer terms like cop to criticize traditional narratives about law enforcement.

In juvenile justice, terms like juvenile delinquent versus youth in conflict with the law are often part of deeper ideological positions about how young people in the system should be viewed and treated. The former label carries a punitive connotation, while the latter suggests a more rehabilitative approach.

Addressing Misunderstandings and Moving beyond language politics

Language is more than just a means of communication—it’s a reflection of power, politics, and ideology. In fields like criminology and criminal justice, the choice of terms can have profound implications for research, policy, public perception, and practical application.

Where does this put us? Both people must remain vigilant in their word choices, fully understanding that terminology shapes not only debates but also the reality experienced by those affected by these terms. Academic institutions, peer reviewers, editors of scholarly publications, and educators, and students, in particular should prioritize linguistic precision, ensuring that terms are well-defined and used consistently. Additionally, all entities should remain open to re-evaluating established terms, particularly as society evolves, new information is gathered, and new perspectives emerge.

It’s not enough to merely correct misunderstandings or enforce rigid definitions. The goal should be to foster clarity, fairness, and a genuine commitment to justice. This means acknowledging the power of language and using it responsibly to shape a more just and equitable world.

Photo Credit

Title: Dictionaries

Photographer: eltpics

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