WITHDRAWN - From Homes to Hazards: A Vision for Portsmouth Through the Lens of the Broken Windows Theory
University
Shawnee State University
Major
Criminal Justice
Student Type
Undergraduate Student
Presentation Types
Oral Group Presentation (Live)
Keywords:
Revitalization, Decay, Neglect, Community
Abstract
Portsmouth, Ohio, once a vibrant city in Southern Ohio, has witnessed significant changes over the years, from a bustling center of commerce and community to a town marked by visible signs of decline. This study examines how the principles of the Broken Windows Theory apply to Portsmouth's transformation, focusing on the decay of its physical environment and the resulting social and economic consequences. By highlighting areas of disrepair, such as vacant properties, abandoned buildings, and neglected public spaces, the study underscores how these visible signs of neglect foster a cycle of apathy, disinvestment, and crime. By addressing these issues and applying the Broken Windows Theory, this work aims to demonstrate how revitalization efforts, such as cleaning up vacant properties, repairing condemned buildings, and improving public spaces, can help reduce crime, foster community engagement, and restore Portsmouth as a place of pride. Ultimately, the study envisions a revitalized Portsmouth, where a renewed sense of purpose and community effort can break the cycle of decay, creating a safer, cleaner, and more vibrant city for future generations.
Human and Animal Subjects
no
Faculty Mentor Name
Scott Douthat
Faculty Mentor Title
Ph.D.
Faculty Mentor Department
Social Sciences
Recommended Citation
Pennington, Kelli; Tice, Trenton; and Helphinstine, Raegan, "WITHDRAWN - From Homes to Hazards: A Vision for Portsmouth Through the Lens of the Broken Windows Theory" (2025). Celebration of Scholarship. 2.
https://digitalcommons.shawnee.edu/cos/2025/session3/2
Location
LIB 204
WITHDRAWN - From Homes to Hazards: A Vision for Portsmouth Through the Lens of the Broken Windows Theory
LIB 204
Portsmouth, Ohio, once a vibrant city in Southern Ohio, has witnessed significant changes over the years, from a bustling center of commerce and community to a town marked by visible signs of decline. This study examines how the principles of the Broken Windows Theory apply to Portsmouth's transformation, focusing on the decay of its physical environment and the resulting social and economic consequences. By highlighting areas of disrepair, such as vacant properties, abandoned buildings, and neglected public spaces, the study underscores how these visible signs of neglect foster a cycle of apathy, disinvestment, and crime. By addressing these issues and applying the Broken Windows Theory, this work aims to demonstrate how revitalization efforts, such as cleaning up vacant properties, repairing condemned buildings, and improving public spaces, can help reduce crime, foster community engagement, and restore Portsmouth as a place of pride. Ultimately, the study envisions a revitalized Portsmouth, where a renewed sense of purpose and community effort can break the cycle of decay, creating a safer, cleaner, and more vibrant city for future generations.
