Environmental Criminology applied to the university environment: situational diagnosis through exploratory marches and fear mapping.

Abstract

This research presents a situational diagnosis of university risk based on Environmental Criminology. Using a mixed methodology that integrates Exploratory Walks, Fear Mapping, and Kernel Density, the correlation between physical incivilities and the perception of insecurity was analyzed. The results showed a predominance of structural deficiencies (50.46%) and environmental deterioration, identifying nighttime as the period of greatest vulnerability (63.09%). The geospatial analysis confirmed a "edge effect," locating fear hotspots at perimeter intersections where pedestrian traffic and infrastructure deterioration converge. The study concludes by validating the link between physical disorder and fear of crime, recommending the implementation of CPTED strategies to regain social control of the space.