Capítulo 3. Bienestar e inseguridad ciudadana en estudiantes universitarios civiles y militares Argentinos

Numerous studies show that having witnessed or been a victim of a crime, as well as a high perception of insecurity, have important social effects and condition, in some way, the quality of life and social integration of individuals. The aim of this study is to analyze how social well-being varies according to the level of concern about insecurity, perceived risk and fear of crime in university students from different backgrounds and commitment to security (civilian and military). For this purpose, a descriptive study of group differences was carried out with a non-experimental design. The purposive non-probabilistic sample was composed of 516 Argentine university students (44 % female; 56 % male; Age = 23.04; SD=4.08). The data reveal that, despite low levels of fear of crime, participants perceive a high probability of becoming victims of crime in the near future. Likewise, the majority of
participants admit to having been direct victims of crime, an even higher percentage with respect to indirect victimization. Although the results show relatively high levels of social well-being, statistically significant differences are observed according to the type of victimization, fear of crime and perceived risk. Also, differential profiles are observed according to whether the victim is a civilian or a member of the military.