Rebecca Hayes
استاد · Gender Inequalities in Criminal Justice
Central Michigan Universityمعرفی
Dr. Rebecca Hayes is a faculty member in the Sociology: Social and Criminal Justice program at Central Michigan University, affiliated with the School of Politics, Society, Justice & Public Service. She also contributes to the Women and Gender Studies Program, teaching courses on rape culture, victimology, inequality, and media portrayals of crime.
Education:
- Ph.D. in Sociology and Criminology & Law, University of Florida, 2009
- M.S. in Criminal Justice, Michigan State University, 2005
- B.A. in Social Psychology/Criminal Justice (Magna Cum Laude), Western Michigan University, 2002
- A.A. in Theatre, Lake Michigan Community College, 2000
Her research centers on gender and racial inequalities in the criminal justice system, with a focus on rape culture, victimology, and the influence of media—particularly the so-called 'CSI Effect.' She employs qualitative and participatory methodologies to examine sexual violence, especially in postcolonial contexts like St. Lucia, and investigates how social media shapes public perceptions of crime and justice. Her interdisciplinary approach bridges sociology, criminology, and gender studies.
Her recent publications reflect a strong trend in analyzing sexual violence through intersectional lenses, addressing how race, gender, and colonial legacies shape victimization and justice responses. She explores digital forms of harassment (e.g., unsolicited dick pics), media distortion of forensic science, and systemic biases in international and Caribbean contexts. These works span journals in criminology, women's studies, and justice reform.
Dr. Hayes has made significant scholarly contributions through books and peer-reviewed articles, though no formal scientific awards are listed in the provided text.
She actively contributes to academic and pedagogical innovation, integrating dialogue-based learning into criminal justice education. While no specific grants or student advisees are mentioned, her participatory research in St. Lucia suggests community-engaged scholarship. She teaches core courses such as SOC 220, SOC 315 (Rape Culture), SOC 409 (Victimology), and WGS 100.
Dr. Hayes is involved in interdisciplinary academic initiatives linking sociology, gender studies, and criminal justice reform, particularly through curriculum development and research on sexual violence prevention.
