Broken Windows Theory

Definition: Broken Windows is a theory of criminal justice/policing that suggests that strict enforcement of low-level crimes, such as turn-stile hopping and public drinking, can prevent an atmosphere of lawlessness and more serious and violent crimes. (Wilson, J. and Kelling, G.)

Application: Broken Windows theory has been used to inform the model of policing in many cities in the U.S., including New York and Los Angeles.

Adaptation: Broken Windows policing has a huge impact on many low-income communities; in cities like New York, the practice of Broken Windows policing means that many more people have criminal records for low-level offenses, impacting their ability to find housing and employment, become foster-parents, and qualify for public assistance programs. This destabilizes neighborhoods, making it more difficult to develop healthy and economically secure communities.

References:

Wilson, J.  and Kelling, G. L. (1982)  Broken Windows: The Police and Neighborhood Safety. Atlantic Monthly, 29, 38.