Contrasting Perceptions of Video Surveillance and Security Patrols in Quasi-Public Spaces

26 Pages Posted: 2 Jul 2018

See all articles by Matt Baucum

Matt Baucum

University of Southern California

Kenneth Nguyen

University of Southern California, Students

Richard S. John

University of Southern California

Date Written: June 27, 2018

Abstract

Business owners employ a variety of security and surveillance techniques to keep their property safe from crime and, in some cases, the threat of terrorism. Given the many security measures available to business owners, it is beneficial to understand how such security measures stand in the eyes of the public. This is especially relevant for proprietors that operate large venues and complexes (e.g., shopping plazas, sports arenas) that, due to their size and traffic, function more similarly to large public spaces than individual places of business. We assessed the attitudes of n=860 respondents regarding two commonly employed security techniques (CCTV surveillance and uniformed security guards) in shopping malls and stadiums. Perceptions of both techniques were generally favorable, though respondents perceived uniformed security guards as safer and less invasive of privacy. Respondents also believed security guards were more effective at deterring crime and terrorism, while CCTV surveillance better allowed for identifying and apprehending suspects after a crime. We discuss the results’ implications for proprietors’ choice of security techniques and the role that public perceptions play in such decisions.

Keywords: security, counterterrorism, psychology, public, privacy

Suggested Citation

Baucum, Matt and Nguyen, Kenneth and John, Richard S., Contrasting Perceptions of Video Surveillance and Security Patrols in Quasi-Public Spaces (June 27, 2018). Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=3204004 or http://dx.doi.org/10.2139/ssrn.3204004

Matt Baucum (Contact Author)

University of Southern California ( email )

2250 Alcazar Street
Los Angeles, CA 90089
United States

Kenneth Nguyen

University of Southern California, Students ( email )

Los Angeles, CA
United States

Richard S. John

University of Southern California ( email )

2250 Alcazar Street
Los Angeles, CA 90089
United States

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