Citation

Stacey M. Am. J. Crim. Justice 2019; 44(1): 125-145.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2019, College of Law Enforcement, Eastern Kentucky University, Publisher Holtzbrinck Springer Nature Publishing Group)

DOI

10.1007/s12103-018-9446-6

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Researchers have examined the correlates of inter-group relationships, relying heavily on Blau's (The American Journal of Sociology, 83, 26-54, 1977) macrostructural opportunity theory. The results of these studies have given mixed support for the relationship between social structure and inter-racial violence. This study builds on existing research on inter-group violence by examining what social structural correlates may influence intra- and inter-group violence using the macrostructural opportunity theory as a guiding framework. Data from the National Incident-Based Reporting System as well as the American Community Survey are utilized to construct a large sample of counties across the United States. The findings provide mixed support for Blau's hypotheses, with heterogeneity and segregation showing some effects on inter-group violence, while racial inequality remains largely a non-significant predictor.

Language: en

Keywords

Inter-racial crime; Macrostructural opportunity; Violence