What is the relationship between urban sprawl and crime rates?

The correct answer highlights the impact of urban sprawl on social dynamics and crime rates. Urban sprawl often results in the separation of residential areas from commercial and public spaces, leading to an increase in physical distances between individuals and diminishing opportunities for natural surveillance. Natural surveillance refers to the ability of residents to observe public spaces, which has been shown to deter criminal activity. When neighborhoods are designed with greater distances between homes and community hubs, it fosters a sense of isolation among residents and reduces the likelihood of informal social control.

Additionally, urban sprawl typically creates environments where people are less likely to interact with one another, further contributing to feelings of isolation and disconnect. This lack of community engagement can impair residents' ability to notice and respond to suspicious activities, ultimately making neighborhoods more vulnerable to crime.

In contrast, the other options do not adequately capture the nuanced relationship between urban design and crime. The notion that urban sprawl leads to lower crime rates or has no significant impact overlooks the complexities involved in crime prevention strategies. It is important to recognize how urban planning and the design of spaces influence social behaviors and community dynamics, which are critical factors in CPTED principles.