Day-Night Variations in Gendered Fear Perception: A Spatial Analysis of Campus Fearscape in the University of Benin

Abstract This study examines the spatial and temporal dynamics of gendered fear perception within the University of Benin campus environment using an Emo-Spatial framework, which conceptualises fear as both an emotional and spatial phenomenon shaped by interactions between people, place, and environmental conditions. Despite growing concern about campus safety, limited studies have explored how fear is spatially distributed and differently experienced across gender and time, particularly in developing contexts. The study investigates how fear varies across locations, gender, and day-night conditions, with emphasis on identifying fear hotspots and understanding the environmental factors influencing perceived insecurity. A quantitative spatial approach was adopted involving 387 campus users, including students, staff, residents, transport operators, farmers, and commercial operators. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and video-based assessments of 30 selected campus locations under daytime and night-time conditions. Descriptive and inferential statistics, including one-sample t-tests and effect size analysis, were combined with Geographic Information System techniques such as Inverse Distance Weighting (IDW), Fear Change Index (FCI), comparative surface analysis, and Moran’s spatial autocorrelation, were conducted using ArcGIS 10.8. Findings reveal that fear perception is spatially clustered and significantly intensified at night. Female respondents consistently reported higher fear levels and wider spatial concentrations of perceived insecurity than males. Major fear hotspots were identified around Capito, Water Board axis, Blocks of Flats, Faculty of Engineering, hostel corridors, and movement pathways, where poor lighting, environmental enclosure, weak surveillance, and reduced pedestrian activity amplified vulnerability. Spatial autocorrelation showed significant clustering in female fear patterns, while the FCI revealed substantial night-time increases in fear across most locations. The study concludes that campus fear is a socially mediated and spatially produced phenomenon requiring gender-sensitive planning interventions, improved lighting, enhanced surveillance, and safer movement environments to promote spatial justice and campus safety.