A Pilot Study on Socioeconomic Determinants of Urban Safety Perceptions among Young Adults in India

Abstract

Urban safety substantially influences how people use public spaces. Safety concerns affect choices such as routes, travel times, and precautions. These behaviors are shaped by both immediate threats and broader socio-economic factors. Wealthier individuals often have access to more secure neighborhoods, private transportation, and better safety measures, while less
affluent people may be more vulnerable in urban environments due to reliance on public transportation and residence in higher-crime areas with poor infrastructure. This study examines safety concerns among 19–30-year-old Indians through an e-survey (n = 30) using convenience sampling. The survey used close-ended questions to capture perceptions of urban safety, experiences in public areas, and safety-related behavioral changes. Analysis of the collected responses provided an understanding of safety issues and examined the relationships between socio-economic status, safety perceptions, and public space usage. By studying the interplay of socio-economic factors, safety perceptions, and infrastructure, this study offers insights into how these elements shape public space behavior. The findings emphasize the importance of urban design and public safety policies in creating more equitable and secure urban environments.