PhD in Criminology, Law and Society

Talley Bettens

Describe your current area of research and/or your academic interests.

I have devoted my research to addressing one of the most egregious injustices in the criminal legal system: wrongful convictions. Specifically, I use both quantitative and qualitative methodologies to better understand: (1) how these injustices occur and ways to prevent them; and (2) how to help individuals reintegrate back into society after being exonerated from wrongful incarceration, after having often spent years in prison. Within my first line of research, I primarily examine false confessions as a cause of wrongful convictions, which occur when an innocent individual admits to a crime they did not commit when interrogated by police.  

Moreover, I center much of this work on juveniles, who are particularly vulnerable to the confrontational interrogation tactics used by the police. My dissertation integrates this line of research with school discipline, specifically examining how school principals question students and how innocent students may be at risk of falsely confessing to misconduct in the school setting. Within my second line of research, I assess the barriers that exonerees (i.e., individuals who were wrongly convicted and exonerated) face when trying to reintegrate back into society after release from wrongful incarceration, including barriers to gaining employment and getting compensated by the state.

Why did you choose George Mason to pursue your studies?  

I chose to pursue my Ph.D. at George Mason because I was seeking a research-intensive university, where I could combine my love for social science research with my passion for criminal justice reform. I landed in the Criminology, Law and Society program at George Mason after learning about its distinguished and interdisciplinary faculty, who continually produce cutting-edge and impactful research.

Are there faculty or staff members who have made a difference thus far during your George Mason career?  

I have been extremely fortunate to work closely with Professor Allison Redlich throughout my time at George Mason. As my advisor/mentor and dissertation chair, she continually encourages and motivates me to do my best. She has guided me through the many ups and downs of Ph.D. studies while equipping me with skills and tools that will be invaluable going forward. In addition, Professor James Willis has made a significant impact on my time at George Mason by always encouraging me, cheering me on, and making me laugh!

How do you hope to use your degree and studies in the future?

My goal is to become a professor at an R1 university where I can continue my research and focus on translating my findings into positive social change.