NCJ Number
140565
Date Published
1993
Length
238 pages
Annotation
Based on empirical research and a review of the literature, this volume examines the community dynamics related to crime; reformulates the social disorganization model into a broader, systemic approach; describes attempts by local communities to create and maintain neighborhood- based crime prevention programs; and discusses policy implications.
Abstract
The authors argue that social disorganization theory has ignored the formal and informal networks of association that shape neighborhood life. Thus, they expand the model to consider the role of networks of community residents, schools, churches, other community institutions, and agencies located outside the neighborhood. The analysis focuses on reasons why residents of some communities commit more crimes than residents of other communities and why residents of particular neighborhoods are victimized at higher rates than residents of other areas. It also considers the neighborhood resident as the unit of analysis to examine the systemic sources of fear of crime. Additional chapters focus on the implications of the systemic control approach for understanding gangs and gang behavior and designing effective neighborhood crime control programs. Notes, index, and over 300 references