Question 1

Which of the following best describes the main criticism of early criminological theories regarding their treatment of victims?

Accepted Answer

They often ignored victims, treating crime as if it lacked an object or impact.

Question 2

Victim-precipitation theory, as introduced by Mendelsohn and von Hentig, primarily suggests which of the following?

Accepted Answer

Victims can play an active or causal role in the occurrence of crime.

Question 3

Which of the following is a key critique feminists made of early victimology and criminology?

Accepted Answer

They neglected the experiences and victimization of women, especially regarding sexual and domestic violence.

Question 4

Routine activities theory predicts that crime is most likely to occur when which three elements converge?

Accepted Answer

A motivated offender, a suitable target, and the absence of capable guardians.

Question 5

Which of the following best illustrates the concept of 'secondary victimization'?

Accepted Answer

A victim feeling traumatized by their treatment during the criminal justice process.

Question 6

Crime surveys, such as the British Crime Survey, were initially developed to address which of the following issues?

Accepted Answer

The lack of reliable police statistics and the 'dark figure' of crime.

Question 7

Which of the following statements about the distribution of victimization is supported by crime survey data?

Accepted Answer

Victimization is concentrated in certain 'hot spots' and among specific groups.

Question 8

Which of the following best describes the main tension within the field of victimology as discussed in the chapter?

Accepted Answer

Whether victimology is an academic discipline or a socio-political movement advocating for victims' rights.

Question 9

Which of the following is a significant criticism of the victim-precipitation approach, especially when applied to sexual violence?

Accepted Answer

It can lead to 'victim-blaming,' suggesting victims are responsible for their victimization.

Question 10

Which of the following best explains why early victimologists like Mendelsohn and von Hentig were considered unconventional within criminology?

Accepted Answer

They approached victimization from perspectives outside mainstream criminology, such as law, psychiatry, and activism.

Question 11

Which of the following is an example of how feminist activism influenced the development of victimology?

Accepted Answer

By challenging male-dominated criminology and highlighting the realities of violence against women.

Question 12

Which of the following best describes the 'ideal victim' as conceptualized by Nils Christie?

Accepted Answer

A person who is perceived as weak, innocent, and blameless, such as the 'little old lady'.

Question 13

Which of the following is a key finding from crime surveys regarding repeat victimization?

Accepted Answer

The best predictor of future victimization is recent victimization.

Question 14

Which of the following is a central argument of routine activities theory as applied to victimization?

Accepted Answer

Crime patterns are shaped by everyday social structures and the movement of people and goods.

Question 15

Which of the following best illustrates the concept of 'contested victim status' as discussed in the chapter?

Accepted Answer

Debates over whether family members, bystanders, or professionals should be considered victims.

Question 16

Which of the following best describes the impact of restorative justice practices on victims, according to recent research?

Accepted Answer

They can reduce victims' fear, distress, and desire for vengeance by involving them in the justice process.

Question 17

Which of the following is a reason why the boundaries and definitions of 'victim' have become increasingly contested in recent years?

Accepted Answer

The rise of new forms of crime and the recognition of diverse victim groups.

Question 18

Which of the following best explains why victimology is often described as a 'rendez-vous sub-discipline'?

Accepted Answer

It brings together diverse approaches and ambitions around the empirical study of victims.

Question 19

Which of the following is a significant contribution of feminist victimology to the broader field?

Accepted Answer

It highlighted the importance of experiential knowledge and gave voice to victims' own narratives.

Question 20

Which of the following best describes the relationship between victims and offenders in high-crime 'hot spots' as revealed by crime surveys?

Accepted Answer

Victims and offenders often come from the same social groups and may even exchange roles.

Theoretical Perspectives on Victimisation: Foundations of Victimology in Sociology and Criminology

Study Guide - Practice Questions