ABSTRACT
Quantitative and qualitative methods are often employed in the same study when researchers want to triangulate their findings and reinforce their empirical conclusions. While the quantitative component explored the nationwide diffusion and contraction of boot camps, the qualitative component examined the dialogue about boot camps in two states during the relevant period. Diffusion and contraction are multi-dimensional processes and there is a significant need for more detailed research into all aspects of criminal justice policy diffusion. The correlations and the logistic regressions of the early diffusion of boot camps were also limited by the challenge of proper temporalization. National media coverage was not significant in any of the diffusionary event history models, a surprising finding given that scholars have argued that the media played an important role in the diffusion of boot camps.
