Gender-based perceptions of the 2001 anthrax attacks: Implications for outreach and preparedness

Authors

Christopher Salvatore, Montclair State UniversityFollow
Brian J. Gorman, Towson UniversityFollow

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

Fall 9-24-2012

Journal / Book Title

Security Journal

Abstract

Extensive research dealing with gender-based perceptions of fear of crime has generally found that women express greater levels of fear compared to men. Further, studies have found that women engage in more self-protective behaviors in response to fear of crime, as well as have different levels of confidence in government efficacy relative to men. The majority of these studies have focused on violent and property crime; little research has focused on gender-based perceptions of the threat of bioterrorism. Using data from a national survey conducted by ABC News / Washington Post, this study contrasted perceptions of safety and fear in response to anthrax attacks among male and female respondents. Results indicated some gender differences in perceptions and responses to possible anthrax exposure, although not all achieved statistical significance. Results are discussed in relation to their implications for criminological theory, security and bioterrorism preparedness.

DOI

DOI10.1057/sj.2012.36

MSU Digital Commons Citation

Salvatore, Christopher, and Brian J. Gorman. "Gender-based perceptions of the 2001 anthrax attacks: Implications for outreach and preparedness." Security Journal 27, no. 4 (2014): 399-420.

Published Citation

Salvatore, Christopher, and Brian J. Gorman. "Gender-based perceptions of the 2001 anthrax attacks: Implications for outreach and preparedness." Security Journal 27, no. 4 (2014): 399-420.