NCJ Number
158113
Journal
European Journal on Criminal Policy and Research Volume: 3 Issue: 3 Dated: (1995) Pages: 93-112
Date Published
1995
Length
20 pages
Annotation
This paper presents conceptual and methodological issues in a 2-year study of the relationship between crime and poverty in Merseyside, England.
Abstract
The study was part of the British Economic and Social Research Council's Crime and Social Order Research Program. The Merseyside study is examining the importance of segregation, spatial relations, and the absence of social cohesion in explaining relationships between crime and disadvantage. The project has assembled several data sets. Analytical methods include conventional multivariate techniques (multiple regression, principal components analysis), statistical tools designed specifically for analyzing spatial data, and techniques for identifying spatial and temporal patterns in disaggregate crime data. Results revealed crime hot spots in or contiguous to areas of social deprivation, social disorganization, and low guardianship, consistent with routine activity theory. Repeat victimization was especially likely in these hot spots. Findings tentatively suggested an increased temptation for potential offenders in disadvantaged areas to commit offenses in the neighboring affluent areas and demoralization resulting in increased crime in disadvantaged areas surrounded by affluence. Figures, tables, and 27 references