Multi-level Analysis of Disorder Policing and Fear of Crime in South Korea

Abstract

Numerous studies have analyzed the relationship between disorder and fear of crime, but few have focused on the impact of policing against disorder on fear of crime. In order to fill in the gap of research, this study performs a preliminary analysis on the disorder policing and fear of crime in South Korea using a hierarchical linear model. The results showed that disorder policing was negatively associated with fear of crime. In addition, policing against disorder may be effective in reducing fear of crime in young females, who have the greatest fear of crime. Age was found to be inversely associated with fear of crime, and this effect was stronger in regions with more disorder policing. The results indicate a need for increased policing against disorder to reduce fear of crime, complete consideration of a region's sociodemographic characteristics in the process of disorder policing, and more problem-oriented police activities where social disorder is prevalent.