Development of the Patterson Gated Communities in Calgary: Fear of Crime, Security Consumption, Media and Marketing

Abstract

How and why people choose and modify their places of residence can be attributed to a number of factors including security. To explore this idea, this study investigates the reasons people move into gated communities as well as how households mitigate their fear of crime through alternative means such as security systems. A case study of Patterson, Calgary, was undertaken which included both gated and ungated communities. Interviews with those associated with the development, building, and sale of homes in the area, current residents, and security personnel were carried out. Additionally, questionnaires were mailed to residents. It was found that feeling safe in the home was positively correlated to feeling safe in the neighbourhood and being a senior. Negatively correlated was watching satellite or cable television news 4-6 times per week. Interviews revealed that there were many motivations for moving into a gated community including, but not limited to, security.