Crime in these school attendance zones has both a direct and indirect influence on child health. According to the World Health Organization (WHO) “health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity,” (Constitution of WHO, 1946, p.1). Physical health, or the condition of one’s body, can be directly impacted by crime,- as well as indirectly through fear. Looking at crime as a public health issue, Kneeshaw-Price et al. (2015), indicate that, “not only can it [crime] directly harm residents through its violent manifestations but also it can indirectly harm residents through stress and impacts on health behaviors” (p. 473). Fear of crime, due to experiencing or being victimized by it, can lead to increased parental protection for children that may include a reduction of the amount of time spent outside and in the community, including time spent taking part in physical activity (Kneeshaw-Price et al., 2015).
…show more content…
Kneeshaw-Price et al. (2015) found in a study of 6-11 year old children in San Diego “a relatively strong association of police-reported crime with children’s total and neighborhood physical activity” (p. 486). Humbert et al. (2006) argues that the neighborhood should be a place that affords opportunities for low-cost forms of physical activity, which can be particularly vital in areas of low socioeconomic status
Kneeshaw-Price et al. (2015) found in a study of 6-11 year old children in San Diego “a relatively strong association of police-reported crime with children’s total and neighborhood physical activity” (p. 486). Humbert et al. (2006) argues that the neighborhood should be a place that affords opportunities for low-cost forms of physical activity, which can be particularly vital in areas of low socioeconomic status