Mediating Effects of Routine Activities on Victimization within the Disabled Population

• In Event: Examining the Impact of Disability on Victimization and Offending

Abstract

Individuals with disabilities are estimated to comprise between 15 to 19 percent of the world’s population (Emerson & Roulstone, 2014). With this large proportion, research surrounding the victimization of this population has increased over the past several years. Moreover, research has demonstrated that individuals with disabilities (i.e. intellectual, physical limitations, etc.) are at an increased risk for victimization (Fisher, Moskowitz, & Hodapp, 2012; Hershkowitz, Lamb, & Horowitz, 2007; McGee, 2015; Turner, Vanderminden, Finkelhor, Hamby, & Shattuck, 2011; Nettelbeck & Wilson, 2002). The current study examines an explanation for victimization based upon the routine activities of disabled individuals. Furthermore, the intersection between motivated offenders, suitable targets, and deficits in guardianship is proposed to have a significant effect on victimization rates among this population. Personal characteristics of the disabled can lead to increases in target suitability. Coinciding with these attributes, shifts in guardianship can also increase the likelihood of victimization. Employing secondary data from the Life Opportunities Survey, victimization within the disabled population will be examined. Preliminary data analysis suggests significant relationships between routine activities of the disabled and increased violent crime/property theft.

Authors

• Taylor Lynn Gann, Georgia State University

• Brent Teasdale, Georgia State University