Victimology

Catalog description

This course is designed to familiarize students with victimology, a sub-discipline of criminology concerned with the scientific study of victims in contemporary society. Topics covered include but are not limited to: the development and evolution of the victim movement in the United States, theories of victimization, empirical examination of pertinent issues, understanding differential rates of victimization based on individual characteristics, the impact of institutions such as the media and criminal justice system, and critical analysis of social policies designed to address the plight of victims. Detailed consideration of specific victim populations and types of victimization will be emphasized in turn throughout the semester. Upon successfully completing this course, students will have not only an in depth understanding of victimology and relevant research, but also gain the skills to think critically about victimization as it relates to the criminal justice system and bridge the gap between theory and practice. Prerequisite: CCJ 11000 ; CCJ 20000 .