Thomas J. Mowen

Thomas J. Mowen is an Associate Professor of Sociology at Bowling Green State University (BGSU), within the College of Arts and Sciences. His research focuses on the effects of punishment and policing on youth and families, with a particular emphasis on the school-to-prison pipeline, incarceration impacts, and life-course criminology. He holds a PhD in Sociology from the University of Delaware, complemented by a MA and BS in Sociology from the University of Louisville.

Dr. Mowen’s work explores the interplay between criminal justice systems and societal structures, including how school security measures and discipline policies disproportionately affect marginalized communities. His studies also investigate reentry experiences, family dynamics post-incarceration, and the role of social support in reducing recidivism. He employs both quantitative and mixed-methods approaches, frequently analyzing longitudinal datasets like the National Longitudinal Survey of Youth (NLSY) and Add Health data.

His research highlights critical issues such as the medicalization of pain leading to criminalization, the protective and criminogenic roles of peers during reentry, and the mental health consequences of violent victimization post-release. He also examines societal behaviors during crises, such as pandemic-driven changes in college students’ lifestyles.

Though no specific awards or grants are listed, his publications reflect a commitment to addressing systemic inequities in criminal justice and education systems. His work bridges sociological theory with applied research, offering insights into policy reforms to mitigate the collateral consequences of punitive measures.