Examination of Survey Design Issues in Fear of Crime Research

• In Event: Methodological Issues in Fear of Crime Research

Abstract

Survey research plays a key role in the social sciences, and thus survey design and construction is a critical factor in ensuring both the reliability and validity of results. This is of particular concern in criminological research in which potentially sensitive aspects of fear of crime and prior victimization are the focus of survey questions. Using a substantial body of prior surveys and studies, Yang and Hinkle (2012) provide a thorough examination of many survey construction issues (e.g., response options, question wording, question ordering) as it relates to fear of crime and victimization. The present study builds upon this line of research with an evaluation of an expanded body of prior surveys and studies as well as consideration of additional aspects of survey construction. Key findings and suggestions for future research will be summarized.

Authors

• Audrey C. Clubb, Georgia State University

• Joshua C. Hinkle, Georgia State University

• Sue-Ming Yang, George Mason University