Citation

Welsh BC, Braga AA, Bruinsma GJN. J. Res. Crime Delinq. 2015; 52(4): 447-463.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2015, SAGE Publishing)

DOI

10.1177/0022427815581399

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

This article serves as a substantive introduction and guiding post for the journal's special issue on "Reimagining Broken Windows: From Theory to Policy." It describes the core concepts of the broken windows perspective, examines its theoretical underpinnings, and sets out priorities for future research and policy development. Important advancements have been made in the intellectual development and programmatic application of the broken windows perspective over the last 30 years. Some of these advancements include the measurement of disorder and experimentation of community and problem-solving strategies for policing disorder. There are also many challenges, including the need for a more consistent operationalization of disorder, a better understanding of potential mechanisms, and concerns about policy overreach in the name of broken windows. We predict that the broken windows perspective will be around for many more decades to come--its enduring qualities far exceed a smartly coined phrase.

Language: en