Public Surveying
Student Survey Findings
The survey we sent out addresses high school students all throughout Union County, who come from different environments. The result shows that many teens feel relatively safe in their own towns. Students would also be asked if they believe access to mace or pepper spray could improve that personal safety. Teen safety is significant because students walk to and from school, meaning spending time in public space without adult or peer supervision. For many students, especially girls and people of color, feeling safe is never guaranteed. This is often dependent on location, time of the day and social surroundings. Evaluating these concerns would allow us to see if tools like mace or pepper spray are a popular solution as a protective option.
Transportation Data
Our data showed that many students walk home from the bus stop to their house. This increases exposure to public environments. Most students felt that they were generally safe while walking home but still take precaution. This aligns with personal statements, where teens living in “affluent” neighborhoods report moments of discomfort and fear. This shows that towns may be safe, but experiences of walking home can still cause concern to many individuals.
Public Opinion
Our survey asked about access to mace or pepper spray for teens, a strong majority of participants supported the idea of allowing it with restrictions. Many respondents believe that mace/pepper spray would provide a sense of security, especially for girls, teens, and people of color who may feel more vulnerable. The approval rate was higher for women than for men, this shows that women are most likely to feel vulnerable in public, and fuel the need for safety precautions.
Parent Survey Findings
The purpose of the parent survey was to understand how adults perceive youth safety and if they would allow teens to have access to pepper spray under regulations. Teen safety is not just a youth issue but also a youth concern. Parents are responsible for protecting and supporting their children. By understanding the parents' perspectives, the survey helps to evaluate whether there is community support for the potential policy change to pepper spray for minors.
Transportation Data
When asked about independence, most of the parents allowed their child to walk alone around town unsupervised, but with precautions, this includes location tracking apps. However, a large population of parents said that they drive their child from place to place instead of allowing them to walk. This highlights that while majority parents allow independence when walking, a significant portion remain cautious of their child’s whereabouts and how they get from place to place. These results show concern from parents about public safety and their child’s whereabouts is widespread.
Parents' confidence in teens to have active altercations is mixed.
Public Opinion
Lastly, when parents were asked if they would support a legislation that provides students with mace or pepper spray with restrictions, A large majority responded yes, although the majority supports this proposal. The approval percentage was slightly less than the student poll, however it highlights the need for more protection for the youth. The parents in the survey highlight that both value independence but also know about the risks of public safety. Parents look for a proposal that would balance out safety and responsibility and risk.