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Crime Prevention and Public Opinion

NCJ Number
121778
Journal
Canadian Journal of Criminology Volume: 32 Issue: 1 Dated: (January 1990) Pages: 75-90
Author(s)
J V Roberts; M G Grossman
Date Published
1990
Length
16 pages
Annotation
After reviewing Canadian news coverage of crime prevention issues and initiatives, this article explores public views of crime prevention through a review of recent survey research in Canada, the United States, and elsewhere.
Abstract
Content analyses of the news media indicate that crime prevention stories are rare, compared to stories describing individual crimes, particularly crimes of violence. Recent surveys, however, reveal widespread public awareness of the major crime prevention programs in Canada, such as Neighborhood Watch, and public attitudes toward crime prevention initiatives are positive. Research also shows that vocal support for crime prevention measures is not always translated into participation in crime prevention programs. Persons may take steps to prevent crime against their own person, families, and property, but they are less likely to participate in broad community crime prevention efforts. Systematic public opinion surveys of Canadians should identify reasons why the public does not participate in comprehensive community crime prevention efforts. 5 notes, 42 references.