STUDY UNIT 2.2
THEORETICAL APPROACHES AND PERSPECTIVES IN
VICTIMOLOGY
Learning outcomes:
1. Explain the elements of self-control that can increase victim vulnerability
according to Shreck.
2. Appraise the extended control theory of Piquero and Hickman.
3. Critically discuss the following Victimology approaches:
Socio-structural perspective.
Socio-cultural perspective.
Physical milieu perspective.
Socio-interactionist perspective. - Social exchange perspective.
Learned helplessness theory.
EXTENDED LOW SELF-CONTROL THEORY: SCHRECK (1999)
Low self-control: The fact that people generally want immediate gratification of
their needs and no not take the consequences of their actions into consideration.
o Schreck applies this assumption to victims of crime.
He identifies certain elements of self-control that increases vulnerability:
Future orientation.
The first element of self-control.
The degree of future orientation refers to the impulsiveness of the
individual as well as to the measure to which the individual is able to
postpone gratification.
Low self-control and impulsiveness decrease the likelihood of
appreciating the long-term consequences of one's actions.
o Individuals exhibiting these characteristics are more inclined to
seize opportunities to have fun without considering the long-term
con-sequences.
, o They may become involved in situations that could endanger their
safety and that of their possessions.
THEORETICAL APPROACHES AND PERSPECTIVES IN
VICTIMOLOGY
Learning outcomes:
1. Explain the elements of self-control that can increase victim vulnerability
according to Shreck.
2. Appraise the extended control theory of Piquero and Hickman.
3. Critically discuss the following Victimology approaches:
Socio-structural perspective.
Socio-cultural perspective.
Physical milieu perspective.
Socio-interactionist perspective. - Social exchange perspective.
Learned helplessness theory.
EXTENDED LOW SELF-CONTROL THEORY: SCHRECK (1999)
Low self-control: The fact that people generally want immediate gratification of
their needs and no not take the consequences of their actions into consideration.
o Schreck applies this assumption to victims of crime.
He identifies certain elements of self-control that increases vulnerability:
Future orientation.
The first element of self-control.
The degree of future orientation refers to the impulsiveness of the
individual as well as to the measure to which the individual is able to
postpone gratification.
Low self-control and impulsiveness decrease the likelihood of
appreciating the long-term consequences of one's actions.
o Individuals exhibiting these characteristics are more inclined to
seize opportunities to have fun without considering the long-term
con-sequences.
, o They may become involved in situations that could endanger their
safety and that of their possessions.
