Predicting Perceptions of Fear at School and Going to and From School for African American and White Students: The Effects of School Security Measures

Abstract

This article uses the School Crime Supplement of the National Crime Victimization Survey to investigate the factors related to White and African American students’ perceived levels of fear of harm, while at school and while commuting to and from school. Of particular interest were the effects of school security measures, including metal detectors, security guards, locked doors, and surveillance cameras. After controlling for the effects of previous victimizations, security measures, and other contextual and demographic variables, there were no differences in levels of fear across gender and race groups. However, certain predictors of fear differentially affected White and African American students. Previous victimization experiences, including bullying, and the presence of metal detectors increased levels of fear for all groups. Security guards in schools increased levels of fear for White students but not for African American students. African American students attending school in suburban and rural areas were more fearful compared to their central city counterparts, whereas White students were more fearful if they attended school in urban areas. Implications for policy are discussed.