NCJ Number
158110
Journal
European Journal on Criminal Policy and Research Volume: 3 Issue: 3 Dated: (1995) Pages: 41-55
Date Published
1995
Length
15 pages
Annotation
This analysis of victims and routine activity theory argues that this theory could usefully turn its attentions to the victims of crime, given that their routine activities are as important as those of offenders in bringing the two groups together in space and time.
Abstract
Researchers may have avoided this area out of concern about the appearance of blaming victims. However, victims could benefit from research in this area. Jut as a small percentage of offenders account for a disproportionate amount of crime, so a small percentage of victims account for a disproportionate number of victimizations. Persons experiencing repeat victimization may have one or more of the following characteristics: location in a high-crime area, following a high-risk lifestyle, involvement in a bad relationship, or being a business placing priority on areas other than loss prevention. A victimization risk self- assessment instrument is needed that will use the kinds of risk factors discussed in activity theory. A victim debriefing instrument would examine more sensitive material than a generalized risk assessment. Such an instrument could assist victims in determining what behavior changes would be most likely to increase safety as well as the victim's role in the outcome. Lists of sample questions and 36 references