Insecurity perceived by the level of crime in the inhabitants and the relationship with anxiety

Abstract

The perception of insecurity experienced by the citizens of the canton of Daule due to the increase in crime and social violence is closely related to anxiety, affecting the quality of life of the inhabitants. This research, conducted with a sample of 170 participants, including men and women from vulnerable areas in the south of the canton, was applied to the urban insecurity questionnaire and the Beck Anxiety Inventory to evaluate this relationship. The results revealed that 20% of the participants presented symptoms compatible with mild to severe anxiety in at least one of the areas evaluated as a consequence of the perception of insecurity due to crime. Likewise, it was determined that women (43.8%) and adolescents (14 to 17 years old) are the most affected groups showing the highest levels of anxiety. Finally, the findings coincide with studies conducted in countries such as Costa Rica, Chile and 11 European countries, where it is evident that crime has a negative impact on the psychological well-being of individuals, causing considerable levels of anxiety, especially in the cognitive and behavioral areas. The research underscores the need to implement public policies that provide security to citizens and access to mental health services.