NCJ Number
84182
Date Published
Unknown
Length
5 pages
Annotation
This paper reviews research on urban criminality, with attention to European countries, and then outlines several solutions to the problem from national and international perspectives.
Abstract
A summary of data on urban crime emphasizes that cities have notably higher crime levels than rural areas, but comments that researchers should remember that rural societies tend to settle disputes without recourse to police. Certain offenses are more prevalent in cities, particularly violence against persons, crimes against property, sexual offenses, juvenile gangs, and vandalism. Factors that encourage crime in urban environments are detailed, such as inhabitants' anonymity and isolation, displays of wealth which tempt persons into crime, lack of adequate housing and transportation, and cultural conflicts experienced by migrants to the city. The collection of precise data is a precondition to any solution, since studies have shown that people often have an exaggerated or distorted idea of the risks of urban crime. Other proposed strategies include controls over urban population growth, improvements in town planning and architecture, better recreational facilities for youth, and police preventive activities. Moreover, the community as well as individual residents must participate in any preventive efforts for them to be effective. Victim services and educating residents about target hardening techniques are also recommended. For related materials, see NCJ 84180-1.