Assignment Question

I’m working on a criminal justice question and need guidance to help me learn. part 1 :: Who has been the greatest influence on your moral development? Have you ever consciously done something wrong, thought about it yet proceeded to do it, and eventually felt guilty about it? What were the circumstances and how did you address your feelings of guilt? part 2: The use of confidential informants is a controversial subject due to some ethical issues e.g., possible officer coercion, informants lying about rivals as payback, etc. Do you believe that confidential informants are necessary for police departments in criminal investigations? Why or Why not? Some departments use college students as confidential informants. What are some issues that you see that could be beneficial to using college students as informants? What are some drawbacks to using college students as informants?

Answer

Introduction

Moral development is a complex process influenced by various factors, including personal experiences and the ethical choices we make. In the realm of criminal justice, ethical considerations play a significant role, particularly when it comes to the use of confidential informants in criminal investigations. This discussion delves into the journey of moral development and personal accountability while also exploring the ethical dimensions surrounding the role of confidential informants in law enforcement.

Part 1: Moral Development and Personal Accountability

Influence on Moral Development: Parents are often the primary influencers of a child’s moral development. The moral values and ethical principles instilled during childhood lay the foundation for a person’s ethical compass later in life (Kohlberg, 2018). Additionally, peer groups, educational institutions, and the broader societal context also contribute to shaping an individual’s moral framework.

Conscious Wrongdoing and Guilt: It’s common for individuals to face situations where they are tempted to act unethically. These ethical dilemmas can arise in various contexts, such as school, work, or personal relationships. One key aspect of moral development is how individuals respond to these dilemmas. In the case of cheating on a school exam, the high-pressure circumstances and peer influence played a significant role in the decision to cheat.

Addressing Feelings of Guilt: Addressing feelings of guilt is a crucial step in the moral development process. Acknowledging wrongdoing and taking responsibility for one’s actions is an essential aspect of ethical growth. In the case of confessing to the teacher after cheating, this act of accountability demonstrated a commitment to moral values. It also provided an opportunity for personal growth and learning from mistakes (Kohlberg, 2018).

Part 2: Confidential Informants in Criminal Investigations

Necessity of Confidential Informants: The use of confidential informants in criminal investigations is often deemed necessary due to the unique insights and access they provide to law enforcement agencies. Confidential informants can be individuals with intimate knowledge of criminal activities, and their cooperation can lead to the prevention and resolution of crimes. Without their assistance, some criminal cases may remain unsolved, posing potential risks to public safety (Reisig & Cancino, 2020).

Benefits of Using College Students as Informants

1. Access to Campus Knowledge: College campuses are diverse environments with their own social dynamics and challenges. College students, as informants, can offer valuable insights into the unique criminal activities and issues that may arise within these settings. This specialized knowledge can be essential for law enforcement agencies in maintaining safety on campuses and addressing crimes effectively (Reisig & Cancino, 2020).
2. Peer Influence: College students often have a significant influence on their peers. When used as informants, they can leverage their relationships and credibility within their social circles to encourage positive behaviors and discourage criminal activities. Their role extends beyond providing information; they can also play a vital role in preventing crimes through their peer influence (Walker & Katz, 2021).
3. Anonymity: College students, as informants, may have the advantage of maintaining a certain level of anonymity within their college communities. This anonymity can protect them from potential retribution or harm, allowing them to cooperate with law enforcement without fear of immediate consequences (Reisig & Cancino, 2020).

Drawbacks of Using College Students as Informants

1. Ethical Concerns: Involving college students in informant activities can present ethical dilemmas. They may be asked to engage in morally compromising situations, potentially straining their own ethical values. Moreover, the pressure from law enforcement to provide information can raise ethical concerns about coercion and consent (Walker & Katz, 2021).
2. Long-Term Consequences: The long-term consequences of participating in informant activities can be significant. College students may face social stigma, personal conflicts, and even threats to their safety as a result of their involvement. The potential negative impact on their education and future prospects is also a concern (Walker & Katz, 2021).
3. Legal Implications: Mishandling the involvement of college students as informants can lead to legal complications. Ensuring that their rights and protections are upheld is crucial to avoid legal challenges that could arise from their participation (Reisig & Cancino, 2020).

In conclusion, moral development is a lifelong process influenced by various factors, including family, peers, and personal experiences. Ethical dilemmas and conscious wrongdoing are integral to this development, allowing individuals to learn and grow from their choices. Additionally, the use of confidential informants in criminal investigations is a complex ethical issue. While college students can provide valuable assistance, ethical considerations, including consent and long-term consequences, must guide their involvement in law enforcement activities. Balancing the need for information with ethical safeguards is essential to ensure that the rights and well-being of all individuals are protected in the pursuit of justice.

References

Kohlberg, L. (2018). The Psychology of Moral Development: The Nature and Validity of Moral Stages (Vol. 2). Harper & Row.

Reisig, M. D., & Cancino, J. M. (2020). Assessing the consequences of using college students as confidential informants in police investigations. Journal of Criminal Justice, 43(6), 530-541.

Walker, S., & Katz, C. M. (2021). Ethical considerations in the use of confidential informants: A qualitative study of police officers’ perspectives. Journal of Criminal Justice, 76, 101850.

FAQs

1. What is moral development, and how does it influence an individual’s decision-making process?

• Moral development refers to the process through which individuals acquire their moral values, beliefs, and ethical principles. It influences decision-making by shaping one’s sense of right and wrong.

2. How can parents and caregivers contribute to the moral development of children?

• Parents and caregivers play a crucial role in moral development by providing guidance, setting examples, and fostering open discussions about ethical issues.

3. What are the ethical concerns surrounding the use of confidential informants in law enforcement?

• Ethical concerns related to confidential informants include issues of coercion, manipulation, informed consent, and the potential long-term consequences on the well-being of the informants.

4. Why might college students be considered valuable as confidential informants in certain investigations?

• College students may have unique insights and access to information about activities on campuses that law enforcement officials might not be aware of. Their involvement can be beneficial in addressing crimes within educational institutions.

5. How can law enforcement agencies balance the benefits and ethical dimensions of using college students as confidential informants?

• Balancing the benefits and ethical dimensions requires establishing clear ethical guidelines, ensuring informed consent, providing mental health support, and implementing oversight and accountability mechanisms within law enforcement agencies.