Towards an Understanding of ‘FEAR’ as an Intangible Cost of Crime

Abstract

The aim of this article is to consider whether it is feasible to conceive of fear of crime as an intangible cost of crime and, thus, to develop a measure of costs to the individual using the kind of approach used in the field of health economics. Through a reflective and critical analysis of the literature, I demonstrate that the fear of crime is seriously under-developed at the conceptual level, theoretical and operational levels. I argue, then, that great care is needed in the development of any measures of fear as an intangible cost of crime. This process requires intensive conceptual development (defining ‘fear’ and ‘crime’) and the rigorous operationalisation of measures. I explain how methodological decisions will need to be made and justified, and importantly remain open to change as the phenomenon of fear of crime continues to be the subject of theoretical and empirical inquiry. I conclude that if this thorough approach is rejected in favour of a more speedy and poorly conceived solution, the negative impact on policy, the public and those working hard to de-mystify the concept of ‘fear’ would be striking.