Abstract
Fear, crime, and self-imposed, isolating restrictions on activities lower the quality of urban life. The impact of community characteristics upon such restrictions has received minimal attention, although the community has long held a place in theories addressing the origin and prevention of crime. This study explores the effects of both formal and informal community organization on such behavior, mediated by fear of crime and victimization. Findings suggest that existing models explaining precautionary measures might be refined. Individual characteristics and fear of crime retain a secure place. Victimization might be reconsidered as an indirect contributor operating largely through fear of crime. The impact of formal community organization may be reflected in the differential responses of American and West Indian Blacks, indicating that this factor might be added to the model, though its place is uncertain.
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