Title

Revisiting Broken Windows Theory: A Test Of The Mediation Impact Of Social Mechanisms On The Disorder-Fear Relationship

Abstract

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.

Publication Date

11-1-2014

Publication Title

Journal of Criminal Justice

Volume

42

Issue

6

Number of Pages

579-588

Document Type

Article

Personal Identifier

scopus

DOI Link

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jcrimjus.2014.10.002

Socpus ID

84917672283 (Scopus)

Source API URL

https://api.elsevier.com/content/abstract/scopus_id/84917672283

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