NCJ Number
168274
Date Published
1997
Length
16 pages
Annotation
This paper analyzes crime prevention measures at the household level (burglary) as revealed by the 1992 and 1996 International Crime (Victim) Surveys.
Abstract
The International Crime (Victim) Survey is a comparative research project that has so far involved more than 50 countries. For the purposes of the data presented in this paper, the countries are classified as Western Europe, New World, Countries in Transition, Africa, Asia, and Latin America. A list of the countries in each of the categories is provided, but some of the data are aggregated for all the countries in each category. Two data tables focus on the type of dwelling of respondents and 1- year prevalence rates for burglary and attempted burglary by countries and by regions for 1992 and 1996. Data also indicate the risk of burglary for type of area and type of dwelling by regions for 1996. Percentages of burglaries that involved damage and actual theft are shown by region for 1996, along with the likelihood of burglary in the next 12 months by regions for 1996. Other data show crime prevention measures at the household level by region for 1996, burglar alarms by countries for 1992 and 1996, and rates of firearm ownership and crime-prevention purpose by regions for 1996. Based on the data reviewed, the study concludes that crime prevention measures at the individual level are not a major concern of the respondents from the participating countries. Although burglary in the next 12 months is perceived as likely or very likely by more than 40 percent of the respondents in most developing countries and in countries in transition, only some basic measures to prevent crime are used by those who fear burglary. Seven elements of a crime prevention strategy are listed. 8 tables