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Victimology and Victim Policy in Europe

NCJ Number
152882
Journal
CJ Europe Volume: 4 Issue: 5 Dated: (September-October 1994) Pages: 9-12
Author(s)
M Joutsen
Date Published
1994
Length
4 pages
Annotation
Victimology has been studied in government and academic institutions in many European countries, victimization surveys have provided results similar to those in the United States, and victimology has had an impact on victim policies in Europe.
Abstract
Topics in victimological research in Europe include the potential victim's role in the social control process, the impact and consequences of victimization and reaction to crime, special groups at risk of victimization, and the victim's role in the criminal justice system. Victimization surveys in Europe indicate that most incidents involve theft and vandalism. Further, the risk of victimization occurs unevenly in the population. The risk of assault is greatest for young urban males, and this risk is linked to lifestyle. Groups at special risk of victimization include certain professionals and ethnic minorities. Domestic violence victims and the long-term impact of victimization have received a great deal of research attention. Developments in victimology and victim policies in Europe are discussed in the context of the different criminal justice systems involved. Consideration is also paid to victim advocacy and victim services. References and notes