Final answer:
Oscar Newman's findings indicate that crime rates are influenced by neighborhood and societal factors. Despite a decrease in crime rates since the 1990s, public perception is often that crime is increasing, shaped by factors like education, deterrence efficacy, and media representation.
Step-by-step explanation:
Oscar Newman found that crime rates are influenced by various factors, including neighborhood variables and societal dynamics rather than ethnicity alone. Despite a general decline in crime since the early 1990s, with violent crime being about half of what it was in 1993, public perception often contradicts this trend, with many believing that crime has worsened. Studies suggest that education levels, neighborhood environment, deterrence measures, and media representation all play roles in shaping the reality and perception of crime rates.
It has often been argued that stronger sentences and policing methods, such as the 'get tough on crime' approach, have contributed to the reduction of crime, albeit the effectiveness of deterrence measures can vary. Geographic and demographic factors, including education, employment rates, and the presence of certain businesses such as payday lenders, are also significant predictors of crime rates within neighborhoods. Conversely, programs like Scared Straight, intended to deter juvenile delinquency, have been shown to potentially increase the likelihood of criminal behavior, challenging assumptions about the best methods to reduce crime.
Additionally, the impact of media on public perception cannot be ignored. Inaccurate assessments of crime rates may be the result of extensive media coverage which can lead to an inflated sense of fear and the belief that crime rates are higher than they are in reality. This discrepancy highlights the importance of objective data analysis and critical examination of societal factors influencing crime.