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Understanding the Random Effect on Victimization Distributions: A Statistical Analysis of Random Repeat Victimizations

NCJ Number
244599
Journal
Victims and Offenders Volume: 8 Issue: 4 Dated: October-December 2013 Pages: 399-415
Author(s)
Seong min Park; John E. Eck
Date Published
October 2013
Length
17 pages
Annotation
This study investigated the statistical characteristics of random repeat victimization and reviewed the arguments of previous studies on repeat victimization.
Abstract
The notion of repeat victimization has been a growing interest of crime prevention policies and portrayed as a practical solution to prevent crimes. One stochastic characteristic of repeat victimization, however, has not been fully considered in understanding the distribution of victimizations: random repeat victimization, which indicates a concentration of victimizations solely by chance. This lack of consideration has resulted in misleading interpretations of victimization data and erroneous arguments. Through simulating the 2008-2009 British Crime Survey and employing mathematical demonstrations, this study investigates the statistical characteristics of random repeat victimization and reviews the arguments of previous studies on repeat victimization. Abstract published by arrangement with Taylor and Francis.