Do Theoretically “Good” Local Institutions Reduce Neighborhood Violence?

• In Event: Institutions and Neighborhoods

Abstract

This study examines the effects of "good" local institutions on neighborhood violence in Seattle. Social disorganization theory suggests the importance of “good” local institutions in facilitating efficacious social ties and informal social control of crime. Although previous studies support that various local institutions play roles in affecting neighborhood crime, such studies tend to focus on criminogenic institutions and places, while paying less attention to institutions that curb crime. The mixed results for which institutions have positive or negative influence on crime also warrant further investigation. In this study, we identify six “good” institutions that may help control neighborhood violence based on social disorganization theory and empirical studies. Using the census tract as the unit of analysis (N=120), we estimate a series of spatially lagged negative binomial regression models and test whether these "good" local institutions reduce violent crime. The results suggest that while some theoretically “good” local institutions control neighborhood violence (e.g., coffee shops and social/civic organization), others do not (e.g., church), net of social disorganization and other factors. Our results highlight the importance of not only considering criminogenic effects of local institutions but also crime controlling effects.

Authors

• Riku Kawaguchi, North Carolina State University

• Nicole M. Jasperson, North Carolina State University