What does victimology study?

Victimology focuses on the interactions of victims with the criminal justice system, exploring how individuals affected by crime navigate their experiences within law enforcement, legal processes, and support services. This field of study seeks to understand not only the experiences and needs of victims but also the societal and systemic responses to those needs.

Victimology examines the roles victims play in crime reporting, their involvement in investigations, and their experiences during trials, including emotional and psychological impacts. By analyzing the relationships between victims and various components of the criminal justice system, victimology helps to identify gaps in services and the effectiveness of existing policies designed to support victims.

Understanding victimology is essential for developing programs and policies that promote victim rights, enhance victim services, and improve overall justice outcomes, leading to a more responsive criminal justice system.