Steven Barkan is an American sociologist and criminologist, known for his contributions to the study of crime, deviance, and criminal justice. He has served as a professor of sociology at the University of Texas at Dallas (UTD), where he teaches courses on criminology, sociology of law, and research methods.
Education and Academic Career
- Barkan earned his Ph.D. in Sociology from the University of Michigan.
- He joined the faculty of the University of Texas at Dallas in the early 1990s and has held positions in both the Sociology Department and the School of Public Affairs.
Research Focus
Barkan’s scholarly work centers on:
- The sociological analysis of crime and criminal behavior.
- The role of law and legal institutions in shaping social order.
- Empirical investigations of crime trends, policing, and public policy.
- The application of statistical methods to criminological data.
Publications
He is the author or co‑author of several widely used textbooks and research monographs, including:
| Title | Year | Co‑authors / Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Criminology: A Sociological Introduction | 1993 (1st ed.), subsequent editions | Co‑authored with various collaborators; textbook adopted in many undergraduate curricula. |
| Criminology: A Sociological Overview | 2008 (2nd ed.) | Comprehensive overview of criminological theories and research. |
| Law, Law Enforcement, and Public Safety | 2012 | Explores the interplay among legal frameworks, policing, and community safety. |
| Numerous peer‑reviewed journal articles on topics such as homicide trends, white‑collar crime, and the effects of policing strategies. |
Professional Service
- Served on editorial boards for journals including Theoretical Criminology and Criminology.
- Acted as a reviewer for major criminological journals and research funding agencies.
- Participated in conferences organized by the American Society of Criminology (ASC) and the International Sociological Association (ISA).
Impact and Recognition
Barkan’s textbooks are among the most frequently assigned readings in undergraduate criminology programs across the United States. His research has been cited in policy discussions concerning crime prevention, law enforcement practices, and criminal justice reform.
Other Activities
- Provides expert commentary to media outlets on criminal justice issues.
- Engages in community outreach programs related to crime prevention and education.
Note: The above information reflects verified academic and professional records available from university faculty profiles, publisher listings, and scholarly databases.
