NCJ Number
108977
Journal
British Journal of Criminology Volume: 27 Issue: 4 Dated: (Autumn 1987) Pages: 358-383
Date Published
1987
Length
26 pages
Annotation
This Dutch study tests the hypothesis that women are more fearful of criminal victimization than men because of their frequent experiences of sexual harassment.
Abstract
A random sample of 200 female Leiden residents, aged 16 to 25, was selected for the study. Five series of questions about sexual harassment were asked the subjects in accordance with five types of offenders, some of which were family members. Data were also obtained on sociodemographic and psychological characteristics. Fear of crime was measured by risk assessments, feelings of insecurity, and avoidance and precautionary behavior. Findings show a strong relation between fear of crime and sexual harassment experiences within the family. There was a weaker relationship between fear of crime and sexual harassment experiences outside the family, suggesting that it is easier for persons to use various techniques for neutralizing the psychological effects of victimization when victimization occurs outside the family. The fearful subjects scored high on factors which indicate they are incompetent to handle potentially dangerous situations. 4 tables and 32 references. (Author abstract modified)