The idea that aggressive policing makes criminals more worried about getting caught and therefore less likely to commit crime is known as?

The concept that aggressive policing can induce a level of fear among potential criminals, making them think twice about their actions due to the increased likelihood of being caught, is referred to as the deterrent effect. This theory is grounded in the understanding of how certain consequences, such as heightened police presence and proactive law enforcement practices, can reduce crime rates by instilling a fear of apprehension.

When individuals perceive a higher risk of arrest, they may reconsider engaging in criminal behavior. This deterrent effect operates on the principle that the fear of punishment can act as a significant motivator for individuals to refrain from committing crimes. By demonstrating a zero-tolerance approach, law enforcement aims to create an environment where the costs of criminal behavior outweigh any potential benefits.

The other options, while related to policing strategies and crime prevention, do not specifically focus on the psychological and behavioral aspects of deterring crime through the fear of arrest, which is the essence of the deterrent effect.