Crime Risks and Rural Routines: A Theoretical Examination of Guardianship Activities in Rural Areas

There is a considerable and growing literature on routine activities theory (Cohen and Felson, 1979) and, more specifically, the guardianship component of the theory (e.g., Reynald, 2009; 2010). Much of this literature is focused on urban and suburban contexts. The current paper examines the theoretical application of the guardianship concept in rural contexts. Given the different structures of daily routine activities, travel patterns, and other aspects of rural living, the manner in which guardianship works is likely to differ in rural contexts. Recommendations for theory and future research are discussed.