turvatundest

Turvatundest is the genitive form of turvatunne, an Estonian term meaning sense of security or feeling of safety. It refers to the subjective perception of safety experienced by individuals in a given environment and is frequently used in Estonian public discourse, social science, and policy discussions to describe people’s perceived safety.

In psychology and criminology, turvatundest is treated as a component of perceived safety, alongside objective indicators such as crime rates. It influences everyday behavior, including willingness to use outdoor spaces, participation in public life, and support for safety measures. The sense of safety may not always align with actual risk and can be shaped by media, personal experiences, and trust in institutions.

Factors and measurement: Turvatundest is affected by crime prevalence, street lighting and visibility, urban design, community cohesion, policing practices, and the clarity of official communication. Researchers assess turvatunne or turvatundest through surveys that ask about fear of crime, perceived risk, and comfort in public settings. Results help identify areas where people feel less safe and guide safety interventions.

Applications and policy: Understanding turvatundest supports urban planning, policing strategies, public health messaging, disaster preparedness, and emergency response. By addressing perceived safety alongside objective conditions, authorities aim to improve overall well-being, resilience, and the effective use of public spaces.

See also: sense of security, risk perception, fear of crime, public safety.