The Temporal and Spatial Drivers of Collective Efficacy Perceptions

• In Event: Communities and Place: Exploring Perceptions and Experiences of Place (PEP) With Emerging Forms of Data

Abstract

Collective efficacy is arguably one of the most prominent theories to emerge in criminology in recent decades. Defined as a task specific social process, collective efficacy represents a community’s shared perception of trust and a willingness to work together to prevent crime. There is substantial scholarly support for the crime reducing effect of collective efficacy in urban neighbourhoods, yet research has yet to fully consider what drives an individual’s perception of collective efficacy and how variable these perceptions may be across time and place within and outside of their home neighbourhood. Using survey data, ecological momentary assessments and land use data, this paper examines the relationship between people’s perception of their home neighbourhood’s collective efficacy and their perceptions of collective efficacy of places both within and beyond their resident community. Additionally, we explore the temporal and place based characteristics that may influence the variability in perceptions of collective efficacy.

Authors

• Rebecca Wickes, Griffith University

• Chloe Keel, Griffith University

• Danielle Reynald, Griffith University

• Christopher R. Browning, Ohio State University

• Ying Lu, University of Queensland

• Jonathan Corcoran, University of Queensland