NCJ Number
149362
Journal
Journal of Crime and Justice Volume: 17 Issue: 1 Dated: (1994) Pages: 149- 161
Date Published
1994
Length
13 pages
Annotation
This study found that particular neighborhoods and residential environments react differently to adverse weather conditions and that an increase in the temperature humidity index (THI) may cause spatial bias in the reporting of domestic disputes to police.
Abstract
Data were obtained for 1,894 3-hour periods during 1986 in Charlotte, North Carolina, to assess the relationship between domestic dispute calls to police and the THI, a measure of the body's reaction to temperature and humidity. Results indicated that time periods defined as being primarily for discretionary versus obligatory activities produced a higher number of domestic disputes. The 6-hour lag of the THI, however, modified the level of domestic disputes expected for a specific time period. During 1986, the mean number of domestic dispute calls to police was 7.49 for every 3 hours. Highest dispute levels occurred between late spring and early fall, with the peak in June. The hour/THI/weekend dichotomy had a significant effect on variations in domestic disputes. Recommendations to enhance police response to domestic dispute calls are offered. 24 references and 6 tables