Fear and safety in transit environments from the women’s perspective

Abstract

While the relationship between women’s fear of crime and public space has been the focus of considerable research, transit environments have received less attention. This study examines women’s safety in transit environments through a comprehensive review of the literature and in-depth interviews with representatives of 16 national women’s interest groups in the United States. It finds that women have distinct safety/security needs, are often fearful of certain transit environments and frequently adjust their behaviour and travel patterns to avoid them. This is particularly true for certain groups of women who feel more vulnerable to victimization and harassment than others. The women interviewed outlined design, policing, security technology and education/outreach strategies that would make women riders feel safer in transit settings.