BEYOND THE CAMPUS WALLS: UNVEILING THE SOCIO-DEMOGRAPHIC AND TEMPORAL DYNAMICS OF CRIME IN HIGHER EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS

Abstract

This study explores the patterns, determinants, and implications of crime within higher educational institutions in Tehsil Adenzai, Pakistan—an area where limited empirical data exists on campus-based offenses. The research was motivated by rising concerns among local stakeholders about the safety, behavioral dynamics, and socio-environmental challenges within academic environments. The study aimed to identify the types of crimes prevalent in these institutions, examine their socio-demographic correlations, assess temporal variations, and evaluate how gender and professional background influence campus crime. A quantitative, cross-sectional research design grounded in the positivist paradigm was employed. Using a structured survey tool, data were collected from 395 respondents including students, faculty, and administrative staff. Statistical analysis was conducted using SPSS version 26, employing frequency analysis, Pearson correlation, chi-square tests, and simple linear regression. The findings revealed that theft, drug abuse, and harassment were the most frequently reported crimes. Profession and drug abuse showed significant positive correlations with crime involvement, while crime was more likely to occur during evening hours. Gender was a strong predictor, with males significantly more involved in campus crimes. These results highlight the interplay between institutional roles, behavioral risks, and environmental timing in shaping crime on campus. The study concludes that campus crime in semi-urban Pakistani contexts reflects both global trends and unique local dynamics. It underscores the need for context-specific crime prevention policies, enhanced student support services, gender-sensitive interventions, and institutional reforms