Question

How does the broken windows theory influence different styles of policing?

Answer 1

The broken windows theory was developed by James Q. Wilson, a social scientist. The theory used broken windows as a metaphor for disorder within neighbourhoods. The theory finds a connection between disorder and incivility within a community to occurances of serious crimes.

The broken windows policing was first developed in 1982. In brief, this model emphasizes on the importance of disorder in generating and sustaining more serious crimes. It further states that the disorder itself is not linked to a serious crime but it is a process wherein the disorder leads to increased fear and withdrawal from residents. This withdrawal leads to crimes because of decreased levels of informal social control.

The policing styles are influenced by this theory. They can promote higher levels of informal social control and take measure to prevent infiltration of criminals. Another policing strategy which had positive effects were place-based problem oriented intervention. Morever, there was a broken windows approach to deal with the homeless which resulted in reduction in violence and crime. Policing styles focused on hot spots of crime along with proactive disorder arrests.