Glossary / Lexicon

Deutsch: Theorien der Viktimisierung / Español: Teorías de victimización / Português: Teorias de vitimização / Français: Théories de la victimisation / Italiano: Teorie della vittimizzazione /

Theories of victimization refer to theories that explain the role that victims play in the crimes that happen to them.

In the psychology context, theories of victimization refer to various frameworks and models that attempt to explain why certain individuals or groups are more likely to be victimized than others. These theories take into account factors such as individual characteristics, social and cultural factors, and environmental factors that may contribute to victimization.

Here are some examples of theories of victimization:

• Routine activities theory: This theory suggests that victimization occurs when there is a convergence of three factors: a motivated offender, a suitable target, and the absence of capable guardians. In other words, individuals are more likely to be victimized when they are in environments that lack effective security measures, or when they engage in high-risk behaviors.

• Social learning theory: This theory suggests that individuals learn behaviors and attitudes from those around them, including behaviors related to victimization. For example, a person may learn to be aggressive or submissive based on their experiences with others, which can increase their risk of victimization.

• Power-control theory: This theory suggests that victimization is related to power imbalances in society. For example, individuals with less power and status may be more likely to be victimized by those with more power and status.

• Victim precipitation theory: This theory suggests that victims may contribute to their own victimization through their actions or behaviors. For example, a person who engages in risky behaviors or provokes others may be more likely to be victimized.

• Feminist theory: This theory suggests that victimization is related to gender inequalities and power imbalances between men and women. For example, women may be more likely to be victimized because they have less social and economic power than men.

Overall, theories of victimization provide important insights into the complex factors that contribute to victimization, and can inform strategies to prevent and address victimization.