Assessing the Role of Communication Ties in Neighborhood Disorder and Crime

• In Event: ICA Plenary Interactive Paper/Poster Session and Reception
  In Interactive Paper Session: Interactive Paper Session on the Conference Theme

Abstract

This study conceptualizes communication ties as a neighborhood-level source of collective efficacy promoting the willingness of residents to intervene for the common good. Data from the Seattle Neighborhoods and Crime Survey were used to create neighborhood-level measures of structural factors, local social ties, organizational, participation, communication ties, collective efficacy, disorder, and victimization. Results indicate that socioeconomic status and residential stability have positive effects on communication ties among neighbors. The measure of communication ties is positively related to collective efficacy, which in turn has decreased effects on disorder and victimization. Implications are discussed in terms of the role of communication in building a safe community.

Author

• Masahiro Yamamoto, University of Wisconsin - La Crosse