OVERVIEW OF VICTIMOLOGYSimply put,victimologyis the study of victims. Daigle XXXXXXXXXXexplains that although there have been victims as long as there have been criminals, “their role in the criminal...

Victimology: A Brief History, Role of the Victim, and Contributions of Notable Individuals Student Name
9th March 2023
Definition of Victimology:
Victimology is a field of study that focuses on the psychological and social effects of crime on victims, as well as the relationship between victims and offenders. It examines patterns of victimization and seeks to understand the causes and consequences of criminal behavior from the perspective of those who have been harmed. Victimology is a subset of criminology, but it differs in its emphasis on the experiences and needs of victims rather than solely on the offender or criminal act itself (Walden University, n.d).
Brief History, Legislation and Current Status
For centuries, victims of crime have been largely forgotten in the criminal justice system. It wasn't until the 1970s that this began to change with the emergence of the victims' rights movement. This movement was born from five independent developments: victimology as an academic field, state victim compensation programs, the rise of the women's movement, dissatisfaction with the criminal justice system, and victim activism (Young, 2006).
By 1990, every state had adopted a victims' bill of rights. Today, 33 of the 50 states have enacted constitutional amendments to further protect victims' rights. The federal government has also taken measures to ensure victims are provided with compensation and protection. The Victims of Crime Act (VOCA) of 1984 established a national fund to provide aid to victims, while the Crime Control Act (CCA) of 1990 mandated restitution for federal crimes. The Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) was first passed in 1994 and has been reauthorized multiple times since (Darene, Walker & Stein, 2011).
Despite these legislative efforts, many victims remain unaware of their rights. Advocacy groups are working to raise awareness so that more people can benefit from these laws. Victims' rights are essential to ensure a sense of justice and accountability for those who have been wronged. It is only through continued education and advocacy that victims of crime will be able to access the justice they deserve. Many are only introduced to these rights when they become involved with the criminal justice system. Efforts are being made by advocacy groups to raise awareness about these rights so that more people can benefit from them (Moore, n.d).
Role of Victim:
The role of the victim in victimology is to provide insight into the crime and its impact on individuals and society. Victims have a right to obtain the financial, physical, psychological, and social support they require from governmental, non-profit, and indigenous organisations (UNODC, n.d). According to the Declaration of Fundamental Principles of Justice for Victims of Crime, victims have a right to use the legal system and receive prompt compensation for their losses. Victimology is a key element of restorative...