NCJ Number
83592
Date Published
1981
Length
13 pages
Annotation
Research on the extent of the elderly's fear of crime, likely reasons for this fear, the effects such fear can have on the elderly, how to reduce such fear, and the elderly's views of the criminal justice system is reviewed.
Abstract
Data from national samples and smaller samples from areas such as Michigan and Southern California have shown pervasive fears of crime among the elderly, although some researchers have noted that the elderly may not have greater fear of crime than younger persons (Lebowitz, 1975; Baumer, 1978) or that the effect of age is less consistent or considerably weaker than other factors, such as sex. Reasons of the elderly's fear of crime may be related to physical factors (the elderly are weaker and more vulnerable), psychological factors (aging can being a sense of having less control over events and experiences), social factors (the elderly tend to have narrow social networks), and situational and environmental factors (the elderly frequently live in declining areas of cities). The elderly's fear of crime often causes them to restrict their mobility and social contacts, thus limiting the possibility of a more fulfilling lifestyle. Senior citizen groups or other social organizations that might appeal to the elderly could do much to reduce the isolation that tends to feed the fear of crime, and the elderly could form volunteer patrols and escort services that could help increase their sense of security. The elderly could also be taught to analyze their environment and locate and correct unsafe areas. Many elderly lack information and do not know procedures associated with the various branches of the criminal justice system. This probably results in many misconceptions that affect their dealings with law enforcement, attitudes about crime, and reactions to crime. Thirty-five references are listed.