Urban Insecurity: Perceptions vs. Reality

This chapter delves into the post-pandemic challenges faced by downtown areas in major cities, focusing on the rising fear of violence that overshadows actual crime statistics. It highlights the disparity between public sentiment and crime trends, revealing that while crime rates in some urban centers have increased, downtown areas have not experienced a proportional rise. Additionally, the chapter examines how media coverage influences perceptions of safety and the specific nuances surrounding homelessness and mental health that contribute to feelings of insecurity.