Fear of Property, Violent, and Gang Crime: Examining the Shadow of Sexual Assault Thesis Among Male and Female Offenders

• NCJ Number: 243171
• Journal: Criminal Justice and Behavior Volume: 40 Issue: 5 Dated: May 2013 Pages: 472-496
• Author(s): Jodi Lane; Kathleen A. Fox
• Date Published: May 2013
• Length: 25 pages
• Sponsoring Agency: Society for the Psychological Study of Social Issues
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Report (Study/Research)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

This study examined the factors that are related to fear of crime.

Abstract

The current study examines the impact of perceived risk and fear of sexual assault on male and female offenders' fear of (a) property crime, (b) violent crime, and (c) gang crime. Results indicate that perceived risk of victimization and fear of sexual assault are significantly associated with fear of property, violent, and gang crime among the full sample and among both men and women. Confirming results of prior research, perceived risk of victimization is a stronger predictor of property, violent, and gang fear among men. Fear of sexual assault emerged as a stronger predictor of fear of property, violent, and gang crime among women, confirming Ferraro's shadow of sexual assault thesis. Abstract published by arrangement with Sage Journals.