The "Broken Windows" Theory

Paper Summary:

The "Broken Windows" theory was developed by James Wilson and George Kelling in an article of the same name, appearing in "The Atlantic Monthly" in March of 1982. In the article, they stated the importance of preventive policing, explaining that in disorderly neighborhoods marked by incivilities such as broken windows, beat-up cars, and transient passers-through, crime was more likely to occur. This paper provides an examination of Wilson and Kelling's "Broken Windows Theory," including description, support and criticism of the theory, as well as an evaluation of literature concerning the topic.

From the Paper:

"Elderly people, for example, live in fear of crime despite the statistics that show they are the group least likely to be victimized (Wilson and Kelling, 1982). In neighborhoods where there are strangers and disorderly people, the fear of a confrontation may take precedence in the mind of resident despite any evidence to the contrary. As Wilson and Kelling describe, because they fear crime, they may change their habits, perhaps avoiding areas they used to visit or breaking ties with the community, still living there but keeping to themselves."

More papers on The "Broken Windows" Theory:

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• Cause and Effect Essay # 105733 : "Broken Windows Do Not Make or Break Law Enforcement Efforts"

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