Revisiting broken windows theory: A test of the mediation impact of social mechanisms on the disorder-fear relationship

    Authors

    J. M. Gau; N. Corsaro;R. K. Brunson

    Comments

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    Abbreviated Journal Title

    J. Crim. Justice

    Keywords

    DISORGANIZATION THEORY; COLLECTIVE EFFICACY; URBAN NEIGHBORHOODS; MULTILEVEL ANALYSIS; POLICE LEGITIMACY; PERCEIVED RISK; ROBBERY RATES; CRIME; PERCEPTIONS; VICTIMIZATION; Criminology & Penology

    Abstract

    Purpose: Broken windows theory predicts that disorder signals a lack of neighborhood control, sparks fear of crime, and sets off a chain reaction ultimately resulting in crime. Support has been found for the disorder-fear link, but the present study argues that this link is actually intended to be indirect perceived loss of control is what should cause fear. Methods: Hierarchical linear models and structural equation models test four hypotheses regarding whether social cohesion and expectations for social control mediate the disorder-fear relationship. Results: Results support partial mediation. Conclusion: Results suggest confirmation of a portion of broken windows theory, in that disorder may inspire fear partially as a result of its detrimental impact on neighborhood cohesion and shared expectations for social control. (C) 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

    Journal Title

    Journal of Criminal Justice

    Volume

    42

    Issue/Number

    6

    Publication Date

    1-1-2014

    Document Type

    Article

    Language

    English

    First Page

    579

    Last Page

    588

    WOS Identifier

    WOS:000345540600017

    ISSN

    0047-2352

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