CRIM71-208: Prevention and Public Safety

This subject is an introduction to the international sub-field of crime prevention (or crime reduction) which differs significantly from crime control even though the terms are often used interchangeably. Students will be able to discern that prevention comprises opportunity reducing measures that (1) are directed at highly specific forms of crime, (2) involve the management, design or manipulation of the immediate environment in as systematic and permanent way as possible, (3) make crime more difficult and risky, or less rewarding and excusable as judged by a wide range of offenders (Clarke 1997, 4). Students will be able to differentiate between the four main approaches to crime prevention that have developed on the global stage, especially from the UK, USA, The Netherlands and Australia. They comprise: situational, developmental, community/social and CPTED. Students will discover the analytical approach, sets of techniques and practical applications of these forms of crime prevention. They will engage in analysis of discrete situations, environments or crime types such as graffiti on public transport, car theft in shopping centres, or assaults near nightclubs. You will examine a range of international empirical evaluations of crime prevention measures through the use of research studies and will have the opportunity to engage in practical crime prevention exercises.