A Qualitative Study of Responses to Crime and Disorder in a Metropolitan Neighborhood

• In Event: Poster Session

Abstract

This study presents a qualitative examination of the range and effectiveness of responses to crime and disorder in a metropolitan neighborhood. The target neighborhood is located adjacent to one of the highest crime areas in the larger metropolitan area and is characterized by local police as having a “persistent” crime problem. A recent neighborhood survey identified nearly 20% of the homes in the neighborhood as vacant, and another 25% as renter occupied. According to the US Census, 17% of residents are unemployed and the slightly more than 50% of households have incomes that are 60% or less of the area median income. Social ties, neighborhood cohesion, and collective efficacy will be examined through interviews with residents, local police, and government officials, as well as observations of neighborhood association meetings and activities. Preliminary observations indicate that social ties and cohesion vary within the physical boundaries of the neighborhood affecting the ability to mobilize police and government resources.

Author

• Lisa Holland-Davis, Clayton State University