Earlier research studies have reported a strong relationship between these indicators and high fear levels: women, elderly, blacks, and the poor consistently report higher fear levels than their counterparts. This study mailed survey instruments to a random sample of 1,600 licensed drivers in 8 parishes, and 1,168 usable questionnaires (77%) were returned and analyzed. While whites were overrepresented compared to the region's population and women very slightly overrepresented, the other demographics of age and income were statistically representative of region's population. The findings showed a weaker relationship between fear of crime and demographic variables than previously reported. The article suggests that other factors which operate in a predominantly rural setting affect variations in citizens' fear levels, such as the perceived willingness of neighbors to help. The paper proposes that Cajun culture with its close-knit, extended families constitutes such a factor. 21 references.