Longitudinal Analysis of Japanese Crime From 1926 to 1987: The Pre-War, War, and Post-War Eras

• NCJ Number: 132025
• Journal: International Journal of Comparative and Applied Criminal Justice Volume: 14 Issue: 1-2 Dated: (Spring-Winter 1990) Pages: 145-170
• Author(s): M S Vaughn; N Tomita
• Date Published: 1990
• Length: 26 pages
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Research (Applied/Empirical)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

This longitudinal analysis examines Japanese crime trends over the past 62 years by focusing on the relationship between penal code offenses and population growth in the country. The analysis also compares Japanese and American crime rates for selected offenses.

Abstract

The findings support previous research that identified low Japanese crime levels. Although the total population and population density increased considerably in Japan, crime rates excluding fluctuations immediately before and after World War II, dropped significantly. Total penal code offenses, homicides, and arsons were higher during the pre-war period; rape, robbery, and all felonies combined were higher in the post-war years. The results also indicate that Japan has significantly lower crime rates than the U.S.; when comparing rates of rape, homicide, and robbery, the U.S. experienced a 95-percent higher crime rate than Japan. 9 figures, 8 notes, and 116 references (Author abstract modified)