Keep them at home: juvenile curfew ordinances in 200 American cities

Abstract

Reviews the history of curfews, which began in England under Alfred the Great. Detects an increased interest in current literature in the use of curfews. Surveys 200 US cities and finds that juvenile curfew ordinances have become widespread in the 1990s. Gives data inter alia on age groups affected, time limits applied, geographical constraints applied and curfew enforcement. Recommends that this descriptive analysis be followed by further research to explain the social dynamics of curfew movements, the various impacts of curfew ordinances, the role of community policing, etc.