Our Working Definition of "Invisible Graffiti"

[abeaulieu]

“Invisible graffiti” in this research context does not mean graffiti written with, for example, special materials that only appear under UV light or certain conditions. Instead, it refers to the everyday markings, inscriptions, or graffiti-like practices that go unnoticed by the criminal justice system and society at large. These acts are “invisible” not because they cannot be seen, but because they are socially overlooked or reclassified as legitimate—unlike street graffiti, which is framed as criminal vandalism.