 Some of Ulmer's research has examined the role of local religious contexts in criminal sentencing, religion as a predictor of self control and delinquency, and religion and desistence from marijuana use.Other research has focused on the interrelationship between concentrated structural disadvantage (locally concentrated poverty, unemployment, low education, and family disruption), religious contexts and violence rates.For example, studies by Ulmer and Casey T. Harris found that traditionally African American Protestant denominations' local church presence has a uniquely protective effect on violent crime.