Module 7 Reading 2

Collective Efficacy

Social cohesion among neighbors combined with their willingness to intervene on behalf of the common good of the neighborhood.

Social Disorganization Theory

A theory that explains crime patterns in neighborhoods by focusing on the inability of a community to realize common values and maintain effective social controls.

Neighborhood Inequality

Variation in socioeconomic status and racial segregation observed across different neighborhoods, often correlated with crime rates.

Concentrated Disadvantage

Neighborhood characteristic associated with high crime rates, indicating areas subjected to high levels of poverty and fewer resources.

Residential Instability

A condition in neighborhoods where there is a high turnover of residents, often correlating with social disorganization and increased crime.

Ethnic-Racial Heterogeneity

The presence of diverse racial and ethnic groups within a neighborhood, which can lead to social fragmentation and lower collective efficacy.

Juvenile Delinquency

Illegal or antisocial behavior by minors, often studied in relation to their neighborhood contexts.

Broken Windows Theory

A criminological theory suggesting that visible signs of disorder and neglect cause an increase in crime.

Social Networks

Connections among individuals in a community that can foster collective efficacy but need to be activated to be effective.

Community Socialization

The process by which families and neighbors influence children’s behavior and development based on communal interactions and support systems.