Lonnie Schaible

Bio

Lonnie's passion for sociology began 30 years ago as an undergraduate at the University of Montana.  As a first-generation student interested in making sense of the world and his experiences, and especially the nature and causes of crime, he was immediately enamored with the insights and practical implications offered by sociological/criminological theory and research. While completing his dissertation, he worked as an analyst for the Spokane Police Department (2002-2006) where he enjoyed the opportunity to observe and apply his expertise in sociology and criminology to contemporary policing issues.  Since returning to academia, he has conducted research on an eclectic range of topics including examination of the underlying causes of national and community crime rates, youth crime and violence, and the sociology of work (esp. Policing). Over the course of his career, he has served as principal investigator on over $2 million in contracts and sponsored projects.  He especially enjoys paying forward the amazing education and mentoring he received by offering rigorous and challenging substantive classes, mentoring  students and creating opportunities for them to engage in both applied and academic research.  His current research involves efforts to apply symbolic interactionism to explain violent behavior.