Vandalism. Why Doesn’t the “Broken Windows” Theory Work?

Vandalism is a widespread phenomenon that causes material damage and contributes to the degradation of the urban environment, which requires the introduction of effective preventive measures based on an understanding of the genesis and phenomenology of vandalism. One of the basic theories used in the prevention of vandalism is the “broken windows” theory. The “broken windows” theory suggests that the spread of vandal transformations is caused by initial damage to the urban environment, which signals the potential for norm violations, weak social control, and insufficient sanctioning for such violations. Minor signs of tolerance for deviance in the urban environment (graffiti, littering, etc.) may contribute to the spread of serious delinquent behavior. As a result, the “broken windows” theory has been central to the “zero tolerance” policy. There are valid criticisms of the theory, related to both its weak evidence base and its failure to account for the complex causal relationships in the operation of social norms. Regarding vandalism, the limitations of the “broken windows” theory are related to the diversity of forms of vandal activity, each regulated by separate social norms, the lack of desire for anonymity or avoidance of sanctions in some vandals, the tactical nature of vandalism, and its close connection with the cultural foundations of the community.

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