NCJ Number
189281
Journal
Crime Prevention and Community Safety: An International Journal Volume: 3 Issue: 1 Dated: 2001 Pages: 55-65
Date Published
2001
Length
11 pages
Annotation
This article examines perceived risk of victimization, experience of crime and threat, and associated avoidance strategies among minority groups in Great Britain.
Abstract
The Crime and Disorder Act (1998) of Great Britain places responsibility upon local Community Safety Partnerships to examine victimization among minority groups, and to plan effectively to combat harassment on the basis of ethnicity or sexuality. Data was obtained from the Worcester local Council for Racial Equality and from Gay and Lesbian Switchboard, and through a series of focus groups and qualitative interviews undertaken with minorities. Results showed weaknesses in police data relating to victimization on the basis of ethnicity and sexuality. Gender and age variations in levels of fear emerged among the ethnic minorities. Elderly ethnic minorities were viewed as being at greatest risk, associated with their inability to defend themselves. Women from ethnic backgrounds noted that the risk of harassment and victimization did not stem solely from the white majority, but a risk also existed from within their own community. This research suggested that harassment and threat were commonplace among the minorities interviewed, and that concern for personal safety did constrain behavior. Gay minorities appeared to have greater restrictions placed upon their behavior than ethnic minorities, as open self-expression had to be confined to private space. Minority status, discrimination, and prejudice were having a clear impact upon individuals’ quality of life and the way they behaved. Respondents also stated a lack of confidence in the police due to a perceived prejudice against their own minority group. 40 notes.