Effects of CCTV on Fear of Crime: a Systematic Literature Review

Abstract

This systematic literature review examines the effects of closed-circuit television (CCTV) on fear of crime. While extensive research explores CCTV’s impact on crime rates, studies focusing on its effect on fear are limited and often inconclusive, despite many CCTV schemes being motivated by the goal of reducing fear. Using strict inclusion criteria, 15 eligible studies were reviewed. The results were inconsistent: some studies showed reductions in fear, while others presented mixed or negligible effects. However, affective measures, particularly feelings of safety, tended to show more positive outcomes compared to cognitive or behavioural measures. The review identifies significant methodological challenges, including vague survey items, limited demographic data, and small sample sizes, which hinder consistent interpretation of findings. It emphasises the need for more rigorous, well-designed studies to better understand CCTV’s role in reducing fear of crime and calls for greater attention to survey design and measurement validity.