The Victim-Offender Overlap: Examining the Relationship Between Victimization and Offending

Date

1/15/2019

Journal Title

Journal ISSN

Volume Title

Publisher

Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority

Abstract

The relationship between victimization and offending also referred to as the victim-offender overlap, is widely documented. While crime victims do not always become offenders, most offenders have been victims. The victimization experience can produce negative physical, mental, and behavioral outcomes in individuals and some victims may go on to commit crimes. This report outlines leading theoretical explanations for the victim-offender overlap, factors that influence victimization and offending, and recommendations for practitioners to address violent victimization and prevent subsequent offending.

Description

The relationship between victimization and offending also referred to as the victim-offender overlap, is widely documented. While crime victims do not always become offenders, most offenders have been victims. The victimization experience can produce negative physical, mental, and behavioral outcomes in individuals and some victims may go on to commit crimes. This report outlines leading theoretical explanations for the victim-offender overlap, factors that influence victimization and offending, and recommendations for practitioners to address violent victimization and prevent subsequent offending.

Keywords

Victimization Surveys, Attitudes about the Criminal Justice System, Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), Behavioral Health, Risky or Problem Behaviors

Citation

DOI