NCJ Number
141289
Journal
Journal of Security Administration Volume: 15 Issue: 2 Dated: (1992) Pages: 65-75
Date Published
1992
Length
11 pages
Annotation
This paper examines physical features of campus building sites that contribute to students' fear of crime, with particular reference to the elements of routine- activity theory.
Abstract
Routine activity theory explains victimization as a function of the routine activities of victims that places them at risk. Structural changes in routine activity patterns can influence crime rates by affecting the convergence in time and space of the three minimal elements of direct-contact predatory violations: motivated offenders, suitable targets, and the absence of capable guardians against a violation. This study surveyed 166 students about their feelings and behaviors in relation to the Wexner Center for the Visual Arts, a new building on the Ohio State University campus in Columbus, Ohio. This building was selected as a test site because its design is characterized by areas offering the potential victim varying degrees of guardianship and escape and varying levels of concealment for the offender. The questionnaire asked students how they felt overall when walking by the Center. Most of the open- ended responses by students related to fear of crime. The findings suggest the importance of the exterior physical features of building sites in provoking fear. They suggest that the physical environment contributes to lack of guardianship, target attractiveness, and concealment of offenders. The convergence of these three characteristics evoke fear in male and female respondents. Identification of the specific sites where people are fearful and why they are fearful is required to develop fear-reduction programs. The necessary changes in these areas should then be made. 1 table and a 22-item bibliography