Fear of Crime among Rural Youth: Testing the Generality of Urban Models to Rural Areas

Abstract

A number of models have been developed to help explain variation in the fear of crime among adults, especially older adults, across urban environments. However, the fear of crime is not simply an urban social problem, nor is it restricted to adults. Studies suggest that the fear of crime is pervasive and affects rural residents as well. Furthermore, adolescents and young adults, who are at greater risk of victimization, also fear crime. Using models developed to explain fear of crime among adults in urban areas, this paper explores fear of crime among young adults in a rural setting. An analysis of data from youth in rural communities on the Eastern Shore of Virginia suggests that urban models are useful in explaining fear among individuals in this rural context. Theoretical implications of the findings are discussed.