Fear over Time: Examining Changes in Reported Fear at Micro-Places

• In Event: Crime and Place: The Baltimore City Longitudinal Hot Spots Study

Abstract

Prior research has demonstrated a strong link between fear of crime and local characteristics that are associated with heightened and lowered measures of fear. Prior research has examined this relationship through measures of incivilities, place managers, and crime generators, to name only a few. However, in 2015, the Baltimore City Longitudinal Hot Spots Study completed its second wave of data collection. Residents of Baltimore answered questions on an index of items related to fear, and fear of crime and crime victimization. Using a panel design, the current study examines the link between measures of fear and characteristics of micro-places, in this case street segments, to better understand the changing relationship of fear to these local factors.

Authors

• Brian Lawton, John Jay College of Criminal Justice

• David Weisburd, George Mason University

• Justin Ready, Griffith University

• Clair White, George Mason University

• Breanne Cave, The Police Foundation

• Matthew Nelson, George Mason University