broken windows theory

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broken windows theory

A theory in criminology supported by various experiments regarding the norm-setting and signalling effects of urban chaos (e.g., broken windows, disrepair of buildings, poorly groomed parks, etc.) and vandalism on further crime and anti-social behaviour.

While interpretations of the data differ according to the author, the experiments suggest that correction of small problems—which, if left in disrepair, signal an indifference to the community by the powers of authority—prevents that negative message from extending to an entire building, institution or section of a community.

References in periodicals archive ?

"Broken Windows Theory" is credited in part for the decline in New York City's crime rate during Rudi Giuliani's mayoralty.

Isko Moreno simply fixing Manila's 'broken windows'

The oft-referenced "broken windows theory" says that buildings with a few broken windows that are not repaired encourage vandals to break more windows.

Environmental Design Helps to Curb Crime

It is akin to the broken windows theory, a criminological theory that states that visible signs of crime, anti-social behaviour and civil disorder create an urban environment that encourages further crime and disorder, including serious crimes.

Abnormal Now Our New Normal

The key hypothesis of Broken Windows theory is that the appearance of order gained by cracking down on misdemeanors will create the reality of order and reduce more serious violent crimes.

A BROKEN WINDOWS THEORY OF SEXUAL ASSAULT ENFORCEMENT

The book outlines seven social constructions of community that have shaped the development of criminological theory related to communities and crime: social disorganization theory, the systems model, the disadvantage model of William Julius Wilson, criminal culture, the broken windows theory of James Q.

Communities and Crime: An Enduring American Challenge

Interestingly, Broad draws a parallel between critiques of the broken windows theory in criminology (which suggests addressing small signs of disorder like vandalism or loitering can prevent more serious crime and instability) and what he calls a "magic carrot" approach to food justice.

Garrett M. Broad, More Than Just Food: Food Justice and Community Change

The Broken Windows Theory has been effectively employed in some developed societies by technocrats.

A democracy of intellectuals

While one Lyra Maleon Dacio commented, "Broken windows theory. Keep doing what you're doing!

'Improve PH in two minutes? Yes, we can'

WORCESTER -- There's the broken windows theory, and then there's 142 Eastern Ave.

Cleanup demanded at three-decker; Protestors rally, blame bank foreclosure

Lovingly decorated in striped wallpaper, with shelves and a rail for clothes, it pays homage to the broken windows theory (i.e., maintained environments are less subject to vandalism) with spaces that are charmingly organized and graffiti-free.

Thinking inside the box

I argue here that order-maintenance policing and the Broken Windows theory it was based on should be viewed as an innovative, neoliberal approach to policing.