Victimology.

Catalog description

This course presents an overview of the emerging field of victimology and the scientific study of crime victims. It looks at the extent of victimization, demographic patterns influencing the likelihood of victimization, and the social and psychological effects of being a crime victim. Special categories are examined, including victims of family violence, the elderly, sexual assault victims, child victims, homicide victims and their survivors, victims of hate crimes, and victims of terrorism. The course also covers the legal rights of victims, their treatment within the criminal justice system, and the range of civil remedies and social service programs available to victims, both nationally and in Massachusetts. Fall. Prerequisite: SOC 103 .