Safe Streets, Nice Neighbourhood?: Analyzing the relationships and differences in the determinants of the perceived safety and reputation of a neighbourhood

Abstract

Perceptions of a neighbourhoods' safety and reputation are formed through multiple determinants. Research has investigated these determinants, but mostly focused on the effects of objective neighbourhood characteristics. This present research attempts to comprehend how subjective neighbourhood characteristics influence perceptions of neighbourhood safety and reputation. Furthermore, it also investigates the relationship between the perceived safety and reputation of a neighbourhood. The results indicate a strong influence of subjective neighbourhood characteristics on both perceptions, with especially perceptions of disorder being significant. Finally, the results clearly revealed a relationship between the perceived reputation and safety of a neighbourhood and vice versa.