Positivist Criminology

• What does positivist victimology argue about victimhood?

  People contribute to their own victimhood
• How can certain behaviors contribute to victimhood according to positivist victimology?

  Behaviors like walking alone at night increase risk
• Why might young people be more likely to be victims of crime?

  They engage in riskier behaviors like drinking
• What did the 2017 CSEW data indicate about nightclub attendees?

  They are more likely to be victims of crime
• What criticism is often directed at positivist victimology?

  It is accused of victim blaming
• What controversial statement did a Canadian police constable make in 2011?

  Women should avoid dressing provocatively
• What is a consequence of victim blaming in the context of sexual assault cases?

  It can lead to reduced sentences for offenders
• What social movement arose in response to victim blaming in sexual assault cases?

  The "slut walk" protests
• How does positivist victimology shift blame in the context of crime?

  It shifts blame from criminals to victims
• What is the implication of saying victims attract crime through their behavior?

  It removes agency from the criminal
• What does positivist victimology suggest about leaving windows open?

  It can be seen as inviting crime
• What are the key criticisms of positivist victimology?

  • Accused of victim blaming
  • Takes blame away from criminals
  • Suggests victims invite crime through behavior