NCJ Number
121287
Date Published
1989
Length
16 pages
Annotation
This review of research on community crime prevention programs notes that the concept has continually evolved from its beginnings in the 1960's and that crime prevention requires both the formal efforts of the criminal justice system and the informal efforts of community members.
Abstract
Community crime prevention behaviors include individual behaviors and collective actions of neighborhoods. Individual measures to avoid risks reduce the chance of victimization, but they also reduce behavioral freedom and may increase fear. Similarly, victim resistance may lower the risk of victimization and increase feelings of safety, but these actions may also increase the risk of injury. In addition, household protection through target-hardening reduces the risk of burglary, but these benefits are available only to those with enough income to pay for security hardware. Furthermore, home security surveys increase fear. Similarly, Neighborhood Watch reduces crime but does not stimulate social interaction, territoriality, surveillance, and other behaviors. Finally, attending neighborhood meetings may also increase in the fear of crime. The research also shows that community groups are limited by themselves in preventing urban crime without the support of law enforcement, adequate funding, and considerable technical assistance. 52 references.