HOT-SPOTS OF FEAR AND CRIME - A MULTIMETHOD INVESTIGATION

Crime and fear of crime concentrate in some areas called 'hot spots'. Hot spots relate to at least two levels of reference-macro (neighborhood) and micro (proximate). Although the study of macro-level characteristics may uncover broad patterns of fear, it neglects proximate cues that can have direct effects on pedestrian experiences. In areas having macro-level conditions that contribute to a climate of fear, micro-level cues may explain site-specific hot spots of fear. On a university campus with a climate of fear, we examined the effect of three proximate exterior site features (prospect, concealment, and boundedness) on fear of crime, spatial behavior, effectiveness of police surveillance, and reported crime. The research also evaluated the accuracy with which measures of macro-level fears reflected site-specific fears. Hot spots of fear and crime converged at the micro level. Both fear and crime increased in areas characterized by low prospect, high concealment, and high boundedness. Measures of macro-level fears missed site-specific effects. The results suggest that increases in prospect, and decreases in concealment and boundedness may enhance feeling of safety and reduce crime. The discrepancy between macro and micro measures suggests that research and planning should consider both macro- and micro-level factors. © 1993 Academic Press Ltd.