RT Article
T1 Active guardianship in urban public places: place attachment and social cohesion
JF Psychology, crime & law
VO 32
IS 2
SP 345
OP 366
A1 Zahnow, Renee
LA English
YR 2026
UL https://krimdok.uni-tuebingen.de/Record/1960296183
AB Everyday users of public places are vital crime guardians because they are often present when formal security is absent. In this study, we use survey data from 940 Australian residents to examine the influence of place type, place attachment and perceived social cohesion on responses to disorder in public places. We find that individuals are more likely to intervene directly in disorder problems at places that are associated with a specific activity and have a defined in-group of participants (e.g. places of worship, health clubs) compared to consumption places (e.g. shops) or open public parks. We also find that perceived social cohesion can reduce the likelihood of guardianship-in-action when place attachment is high. We suggest that in public places the perception that other individuals are capable and willing to intervene may lead to diffusion of responsibility.
K1 Bystander Effect
K1 public places
K1 Neighbourhood
K1 routine activity space
K1 Guardianship
DO 10.1080/1068316X.2024.2368568