Immigrants and Crime Prevention (From Integrating Crime Prevention Strategies: Propensity and Opportunity, P 255-299, 1995, Per-Olof H Wikstrom, Ronald V Clarke, et al., eds. -- See NCJ-157412)

• NCJ Number: 157423
• Author(s): P L Martens
• Date Published: 1995
• Length: 45 pages
• Sale Source: National Council for Crime Prevention
• Publication Type: Research (Theoretical)
• Language: English
• Country: Sweden
• Note: *This document is currently unavailable from NCJRS.

Annotation

This paper discusses various factors in the social situation of immigrants who have arrived in Sweden in the last two decades and how they may be linked to higher crime rates by this group.

Abstract

The discussion begins with background information on the Swedish immigrant population and the immigration to Sweden, followed by a summary of what is known about crime among immigrants in Sweden. The author then addresses the psychological and social psychological aspects of being an immigrant, with attention to the processes of psychological and social adaptation to a new society. Risk of criminality among immigrants is then related to the immigrants' establishment within the new society in terms of social control theory. Three risk groups among immigrants are identified: victims of war and torture, immigrants in their early teens, and children of poorly adapted parents. The paper then suggests crime prevention measures appropriate for the immigrant population. Many of the suggestions aim to reinforce the identity and self-esteem of immigrants. This should include the use of rehabilitation programs to treat those immigrants who have been subjected to various traumatic experiences. Another crime-prevention thrust is to provide support for immigrant families that will facilitate their adaptation to the new society. 33 references