Safety perception in a high-risk region

Abstract:
The study is based on data from a sociological survey conducted in 2017 in North Bohemia – a high-risk region both in terms of crime and existing social problems. The aim of the article is to identify differences and important determinants of perceived security within sub-regions of the analyzed area. Using a logistic regression analysis, we found that not only perceived neighborhood disorganization but mainly perceived tension between social groups is a strong predictor of perceived security. On the other hand, the analysis did not show any substantial influence of socio-demographic characteristics. The inter-groups tension represents a particular measure of concerns nevertheless it probably covers a broader scope of local problems including the social exclusion issue. The authors discuss the outcome as a special feature in the context of theories of disorganization, incivility and strain.

Keywords:
feeling of security; social exclusion; region; disorganization; tension

Authors:
Pavel Kuchař, Jiří Buriánek

DOI: