Description of the Questionnaire

The Neighborhood Disorganization Scale is a tool for measuring the degree of social disorganization in a neighborhood. It includes questions related to physical disorder, such as abandoned buildings, graffiti, and litter, social disorder, such as gangs, drug use, and prostitution, as well as economic deprivation, such as high unemployment and poverty. The questionnaire aims to capture the level of crime, decay, and social dysfunction in an area.

Data Analysis and Use

Responses are given on a three-point scale where a big problem corresponds to the value 3, somewhat of a problem to the value 2, and not a problem to the value 1. The total score is obtained by summing the responses and dividing by the number of items. The score range is from 1 to 3, with higher values indicating a greater level of crime, neglect, and social disorganization. The data can be used for comparisons between different neighborhoods, to identify areas in need of social policy interventions, and as a risk indicator for crime and social problems.

Purpose

The purpose of the scale is to assess social and physical disorganization in neighborhoods and to provide an objective tool for researchers and policymakers, enabling them to design and implement prevention programs and social interventions.

Calibration

The scale has been applied and validated in research contexts, mainly in the field of youth delinquency and criminology. The questions have proven reliable in capturing residents’ perceptions of the conditions in their neighborhood.

References

Thornberry, T. P., Krohn, M. D., Lizotte, A. J., Smith, C. A., & Tobin, K. (2003). Gangs and delinquency in developmental perspective. New York: Cambridge University Press.
CDC (2005). Measuring Violence-Related Attitudes, Behaviors, and Influences Among Youths: A Compendium of Assessment Tools.