Qian He

Graduation Semester and Year

2022

Language

English

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy in Urban Planning and Public Policy

Department

Urban and Public Affairs

First Advisor

Jianling Li

Abstract

This dissertation examines the relationship between neighborhood characteristics, crime, and mental health, with an emphasis on the role of social disadvantage. Using 5-year panel data from Dallas- Fort Worth metroplex, Texas, and a Spatial Econometric research approach, the findings of this study provide suggestions for building safe and healthy communities. Building upon the interdisciplinary literature on urban planning, environmental criminology, and public health, this study first identifies the impact of environmental factors on property crime, then detects the moderating effects of neighborhood environment upon crime’s impact on mental health status. This study finds that commercial and mixed land-use development, number of transit facilities, and alcohol-related establishments are positively associated with property crime rate while controlling for other factors and spatial spillover effects. Neighborhoods with a higher percentage of Black and African American people and a lower level of educational attainment tend to register a higher property crime rate. While crime, particularly violent crime, poses a significant threat to the mental health status, built environmental characteristics such as parks and recreational space, commercial and retail space, and employment density could help mitigate the negative impact on mental health. Additionally, Black or African American communities, Hispanic/Latinx communities, and people from renter households are more vulnerable to crime’s impact on mental health while controlling all other factors. This dissertation contributes to the understanding of how urban planners could address the challenge of crime and build healthy, resilient, and equitable neighborhoods.

Keywords

Urban planning, Crime, Mental health, Collective efficacy, Environmental equity

Disciplines

Public Affairs | Public Affairs, Public Policy and Public Administration | Social and Behavioral Sciences

Comments

Degree granted by The University of Texas at Arlington

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