He reviews, first of all, the reasons for using victimization survey statistics to complement official statistics. Then he summarizes the arguments against the studies: (1) the fact that this type of study might be applicable to developed countries but its use in Latin America merely reinforces a tendency of cultural and scientific domination by developed nations over underdeveloped ones; (2) the lack of indigenous personnel to carry out this type of study with a resulting dependence on experts from developed countries; (3) the high cost of carrying out this type of study compared to the benefit to be realized. After reviewing all these objections, the author raises some suggestions as to how this type of study could be adapted to the Latin American reality and indicates its potential benefits to the area. Thirty-five references are included. (Author abstract modified)