broken windows theory

== English == === Alternative forms === broken window theory === Etymology === After article propounding the theory by social scientists James Q. Wilson and George L. Kelling, “Broken Windows”, Atlantic Monthly (March 1982). === Proper noun === broken windows theory (criminology) A criminological theory stating that signs of urban decay (e.g. broken windows, graffiti, loitering) signal that an area is not monitored, encouraging more destructive criminal behavior. ==== Related terms ==== broken windows policing