Extent of Fear of Crime among Students: The Case of a Kenyan University

This study aimed to explore the extent of fear of crime among students who are currently attending the Institute of Tourism and Hospitality Management (IToHM) within the Dedan Kimathi University of Technology. This research was conducted due to the absence of prior studies on this specific topic. The research employed a quantitative approach with a survey design, utilizing emotion-based measures to assess fear of crime among the participants. The sample size of 147 respondents was determined using Yamane's formula with a margin of error of 0.05, drawn from a population of 200 students divided into strata based on their program (Bachelor and Diploma students). The findings revealed a high level of fear of crime among IToHM students. The study identified property theft and robbery as the most feared crimes, with 86.6% and 84.9% of respondents expressing fear, respectively. Additionally, malicious property damage and burglary were reported to be feared by 78.1% of the participants. The fear percentages for assault and rape were 68.9% and 42%, respectively. Furthermore, there was a low frequency of fear of crime since most respondents stated that they had only experienced fear of crime once in the previous year. The results indicate a pressing need for the university to address the fear of crime among its students. By understanding the specific crimes causing fear and their respective frequencies, the university can implement targeted measures to mitigate this issue effectively. Moreover, the study recommends establishing a mechanism for annual data collection on fear of crime to monitor the situation and design appropriate interventions in the long term. Addressing the fear of crime among IToHM students will foster a safer and more conducive learning environment.