معرفی
Scott Akins serves as Professor and Associate Director of Sociology within the School of Public Policy at Oregon State University's College of Liberal Arts. His academic career spans over two decades with consistent contributions to criminological theory and drug policy analysis, teaching core courses including Introduction to Crime & Justice, Serial Homicide, and Sociology of Drug Use & Abuse.
His educational foundation includes a Ph.D. in Sociology from Washington State University (2002), an M.A. in Sociology from the same institution (1999), and a B.S. in Criminal Justice from Northern Arizona University (1994). This interdisciplinary training bridges criminal justice practice with sociological theory.
Dr. Akins' research program centers on criminology and deviance with specialized expertise in drug policy reform and research methodology. His work critically examines the sociological dimensions of substance use, particularly focusing on marijuana legalization efforts and drug decriminalization movements. He employs mixed-method approaches to analyze policing responses to homelessness and mental illness, consistently connecting empirical findings to actionable policy recommendations. His scholarship demonstrates how social context shapes both criminal behavior and institutional responses.
Analysis of his 2013-2024 publication record reveals three dominant trajectories: evolving drug policy frameworks (particularly Oregon's decriminalization initiative), police-mental health system intersections, and methodological innovations in studying marginalized populations. His work increasingly emphasizes policy translation, with publications appearing in both academic journals and public-facing platforms like The Conversation.
His scholarly contributions have been recognized through multiple teaching honors:
- Oregon State University College of Liberal Arts Master Teacher Award (2014)
- Sociology Student Choice Award: Outstanding Mentor (2006)
- Sociology Student Choice Award: Outstanding Professor (2005)
Dr. Akins maintains active research partnerships with law enforcement agencies, notably through the Benton County Mental Health Collaboration project. His grant-funded work typically involves interdisciplinary teams combining academic researchers, police departments, and community service providers to address complex public safety challenges. Current projects focus on implementing evidence-based responses to justice-involved individuals with mental health conditions.
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