The Impact of Hot Spots Policing on Collective Efficacy: Findings From a Randomized Field Trial

• NCJ Number: 253902
• Journal: Justice Quarterly Volume: 36 Issue: 5 Dated: 2019 Pages: 900-928
• Author(s): Tammy R. Kochel; David Weisburd
• Date Published: 2019
• Length: 29 pages
• Grant Number(s): 2011-IJ-CX-0007
• Agencies: NIJ-Sponsored
• Publication Type: Research (Applied/Empirical); Report (Study/Research); Report (Grant Sponsored); Program/Project Description

Annotation

Although hot spots policing has been recognized as an effective method to reduce crime, there have been few rigorous studies of whether this approach impacts collective efficacy at hot spots, so the current study conducted an experiment in 71 crime hot spots, comparing a collaborative problemsolving approach, a directed-patrol approach, and standard policing practices.

Abstract

In disadvantaged neighborhoods, prior research has found reduced social cohesion and less willingness among residents to address disruptive behaviors and violations of social norms. This deficiency is commonly associated with higher levels of disorder and crime; therefore, recent scholarship has begun to consider whether police can help foster collective efficacy, especially in places struggling with serious crime problems. Early results are somewhat mixed. Yet the cooperation hypothesis asserts that when neighborhood residents see police as a more viable and reliable resource, residents will be emboldened to exert informal social control to address problems. The current study found that over time, a substantial increase in police presence apparently promoted modest improvements in collective efficacy. The study attributes this finding to the cooperation hypothesis. (publisher abstract modified)