Four main theories of Victimology
There are four main theories of Victimology: routine activity, deviant place, lifestyle, and victim participation. The routine activity theory suggests that there must be three factors that reflect regular activities in a normal lifestyle. These factors increase the likelihood of being victimized. Deviant place theory proposes that certain places pose higher risk for being victimized especially when someone frequents that location. Lifestyle theories suggest that some criminals target their victims based on their lifestyle. If you have ever watched Criminal Minds then you can compare this theory to when they say someone was a high-profile victim, because they lived a life (like abusing drugs or prostitution) that gave a higher risk for being a victim. The victim participation theory states that some people may instigate or start a conflict that results in their victimization.
I live in a small town that tends to have a lot of drama and after learning about the different theories of victimology I believe victim participation could be the main reason for victimization in my town. Although you could find many crimes and link any of the other three theories as to why the victim became a victim, victim participation would best fit majority of the crimes committed. In the past 10 years I can recall many crimes committed where the victim had instigated a fight or was committed out of jealousy due to the victim finding success in their life.
Four main theories of Victimology
There are many ways to apply concepts from the victim participation theory to protect myself from being victimized. Jones, J. R. explains that the behaviors with victim participation can include alcohol or drugs that can cause the victim to act out (2017). One way to apply the concepts of this theory is to make sure, if I am out drinking, that I do not overdo it and can still be in full control of my actions. I can also choose my battles wisely and not start fights or arguments that are not necessary and could possibly put my life in danger. Another way would be to not engage with people who tend to instigate fights or get aggressive when drinking. The theory also states that gaining success in your life can lead to victimization. With taking this concept into account I cannot announce big work promotions online or to other people. I can also keep my personal life more private to not be sought out at a victim in a crime due to jealousy or other motives.
Law enforcement can also use these theories to decrease violent victimization by considering the theory that best fits their location and taking preventative measures. For example, if they are in an area where the lifestyle theory best fits victimization, they can patrol more often in the high traffic area for drugs and prostitution. Law enforcement could also do daily check ins to see if any of the sex workers are missing or have had trouble with customers. If the area fits more with deviant place theory, they can also increase patrol in those areas. They could also create social media posts and talk to locals or high-risk victims about possible ways to prevent being victimized and what to do if there is a potential crime in progress.
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