SOC 4410 Criminology: Victims and Victimization

victimology

the study of victims

crime victim

someone that suffers because of a crime

prevalence rate

the number of unique persons or households in the population experiencing at least one victimization during a specified time.

Formula: ((total # victims per group)/population of that group)*1000 = victimization rate per 1000 of population.

prevalence rate

the # of unique persons or households in the population experiencing at least one victimization during a specified time.

t

do crimes affect victims after the fact (t/f)?

life-stye exposure theory

everyday activities affect a person’s exposure to situations in which victimization may occur. Work schedules, leisure activities, social relationships, and where people spend their time can influence risk.

routine activities theory

crime becomes more likely when three conditions come together:

1. A motivated offender

2. A suitable target

3. The absence of a capable guardian

capable guardian

doesn’t have to be a cop; could be a person, secure lock, surveillance, adequate lighting, or any other condition that may discourage an offense

victim precipitation

the possibility that a victim’s actions contributed to an interaction that ended in crime.

secondary victimization

additional stress after a crime when dealing with police, courts, medical systems, employers, or media, in which they increase a victims distress.

helps us figure out how to reduce crime

Why is understanding victimization patterns important?