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Dangerous Situations: Social Context and Fear of Victimization

NCJ Number
126248
Journal
Social Forces Volume: 68 Issue: 3 Dated: (March 1990) Pages: 891-907
Author(s)
M Warr
Date Published
1990
Length
17 pages
Annotation
As people navigate their social and physical environment, what cues or signs lead them to believe that they are in danger of becoming victims of crime?
Abstract
Using Goffman's essay on "Normal Appearances" as a backdrop, we argue that there are three central cues that evoke fear of victimization. The effects of these cues are tested using data from a factorial survey (Rossie and Nock 1982) conducted in Dallas. We then consider an additional social cue, and the conditions under which cues do and do not operate. 3 tables and 23 references. (Author abstract)