Victim precipitation in criminology Research Essay

According to the criminology theory known as “victim precipitation,” there are times when victims take the first steps that lead to their loss or harm by giving the offender the chance to conduct the crime. (Petherick, 2017). Therefore, the goal of this essay is to examine the benefits and drawbacks of researching victim precipitation as well as to provide arguments for why this method of research merits further investigation.

Investigating victim precipitation aids in spotting dangerous behaviors. There are some things that can make it more likely for someone to become a victim. Therefore, researching victim precipitation aids in identifying living decisions and other elements that may raise a person’s risk of becoming a victim. (Petherick, 2017). For instance, individuals with low victimization risks will be aware of their surroundings and will also develop security sensitive behaviours by avoiding dangerous situations such as walking alone at night. On the other hand, individuals with high risk of victimization will not develop security sensitive behaviors. Consequently, they would frequently place themselves in vulnerable situations. It is therefore important to study victim precipitation since it helps individuals to identify lifestyle choices which can increase their chances of becoming a victim. However, crimes can be very random thus making it difficult to predict victimization.

Researchers should not only continue to study victim precipitation, but they should also expand upon the theories of precipitation through more discourse and research since research has shown that victim precipitation is beneficial within the disciplines of victimology and criminology (Petherick, 2017). Moreover, when people have a better understanding of the role they play in crime, it can help them reduce victimization or re-victimization.

Reference

Petherick W (2017) Victim Precipitation: Why we need to Expand Upon the Theory. Forensic Res Criminol Int J 5(2): 00148. DOI: 10.15406/frcij.2017.05.00148