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Social and Behavioral Sciences Commons

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Criminology and Criminal Justice

University of Nebraska at Omaha

Student Work

1997

Articles 1 - 2 of 2

Full-Text Articles in Social and Behavioral Sciences

Connections Of Self-Esteem And Gang Membership, Annette C. Miller Aug 1997

Connections Of Self-Esteem And Gang Membership, Annette C. Miller

Student Work

Reasons for gang membership have been hypothesized but very little empirical research has been conducted trying to determine why individuals join and remain in delinquent gangs. Low self-esteem has been suggested as a reason for entering into delinquency and joining a gang. Research has shown gang members have lower overall self-esteem than do non-gang individuals (Wang,1994). An enhancement in this low self-esteem has been suggested as a reason for continuing with gang membership and delinquent behavior. There are mixed results in the research examining the connection of delinquent behavior and increased self-esteem. Kaplan's (1975) self-esteem enhancement theory has not been …


Factors Affecting Fear Of Crime And Victimization Of Residents In Nebraska, Melissa Megerson Jul 1997

Factors Affecting Fear Of Crime And Victimization Of Residents In Nebraska, Melissa Megerson

Student Work

Since the 1960's, fear of crime has increased dramatically, causing a heightened interest in the factors contributing to this problem. The purpose of this thesis is to examine factors that affect fear of crime, perceived risk of victimization, and actual victimization. Data was obtained from a telephone interview of 500 Nebraska residents, 18 years of age or older conducted in 1996. Analysis of the data indicates that females and those respondents with an income of under $20,000 have an increased level of fear of crime. Those respondents who were victimized reported a greater perceived risk of victimization. Similarly, those respondents …