What does the "broken windows theory" suggest about policing?

The "broken windows theory" posits that addressing minor offenses and maintaining order in a community can prevent more serious crimes from occurring. The theory suggests that when small issues, such as vandalism or public disorder, are left unchecked, it sends a signal that the community is uncared for, which can lead to an increase in more serious crime.

By intervening in minor infractions, law enforcement can help foster a sense of order and community responsibility. This proactive approach works on the premise that if residents believe that their environment is being maintained and that wrongdoings will be addressed, they are less likely to engage in criminal behavior. Thus, focusing on minor offenses is viewed as a strategy to bolster community safety and discourage more serious crime from developing.

The other options do not align with the theory. For example, suggesting that ignoring minor offenses leads to less crime overall contradicts the foundational idea of the "broken windows theory." Similarly, the notion that minor offenses should be tolerated or that neighborhood appearance does not impact crime rates completely dismisses the theory's emphasis on order maintenance and community perception.