NCJ Number
103113
Date Published
Unknown
Length
59 pages
Annotation
This overview provides evidence, theory, and sources to support targeted social development as a crime prevention measure.
Abstract
'Crime' as discussed in this report is limited to 'street' crimes such as theft, robbery, sexual assault, and murder. Social development refers to interventions designed to remedy criminogenic social conditions such as poverty, inadequate housing, and unhealthy family influences. Crime reduction through law enforcement and opportunity reduction has a limited capacity to reduce crime. A greater impact can be made by impacting such social factors as the family; poverty, housing, and peer groups; schooling; work; marriage; and drug and alcohol abuse. International studies show the effectiveness of social development in controlling crime, most notably in Japan. France provides the most recent and comprehensive example of a national strategy aimed at reducing crime through local social development programs. Canadian social programs with the potential to reduce crime address employment, housing, social services, social security, education, and health care. Examples of such programs are described, accompanied by their addresses, phone numbers, and contact persons. 9 references useful for understanding the potential of crime prevention through social development.