NCJ Number
229774
Journal
Journal of Interpersonal Violence Volume: 22 Issue: 2 Dated: February 2007 Pages: 198-217
Date Published
February 2007
Length
20 pages
Annotation
This study examined correlates of fear of crime and perceptions of risk among a sample of 272 self-identified lesbians and gay men.
Abstract
Research on fear of crime has evolved to suggest the existence of a complex relationship between individual, lifestyle, and contextual factors. Past work generally focuses on predominantly heterosexual populations. Higher levels of perceived risk and fear of victimization were found among females, persons in neighborhoods characterized by incivility, and persons who had experienced previous victimization. Perceived risks of personal and property victimization were similar for males and females. Contrary to past research, women did not seem to view all types of potential victimization as opportunities for sexual assault. Instead, fear of victimization was offense specific - past personal victimization predicted fear of future personal victimization, and past property victimization predicted fear of future property victimization. Similarities and differences between current findings and suggestions for future research are discussed. (Published Abstract)