A general problem-solving matrix (GPSM): combining crime prevention and public health tools

Crime involves different individuals interacting in complex social and physical settings. Often, crime problem solvers reach for a common generic response, when they need to consider a number of possible solutions. Thinking tools can help. In this article, we show how uniting an injury prevention tool—the Haddon Matrix used widely in public health—and a crime prevention tool—the crime problem triangle used widely in policing—can provide guidance to crime problem solvers. We call our hybrid the General Problem-Solving Matrix (GPSM). We apply GPSM to rape and burglary to illustrates its features. We conclude the article by examining the alternative versions of GPSM in crime prevention.