Polyvictimization: Does Personality Matter?

• In Event: Current Research on Poly Victims and Repeat Victims of Violence

Abstract

Much of the polyvictimization (i.e., experiencing multiple types of victimization) literature focuses on the consequences of polyvictimization rather than its correlates. Additionally, much of the literature that does examine individual-level correlates of polyvictimization does so using cross-sectional data. Thus, there is a need for more research that focuses on individual-level correlates of polyvictimization using longitudinal data. The current study fills this gap by examining whether the Big Five personality traits, measured at an earlier time point, influence experiencing polyvictimization at later time points using multiple waves of the Pathways to Desistance data. Results show that personality does indeed influence experiencing polyvictimization. Specifically, openness increases the odds of experiencing polyvictimization, but agreeableness decreases the odds of experiencing polyvictimization. Discussion of findings and implications for polyvictimization prevention and intervention are discussed.

Authors

• Katelyn Hancock, Georgia State University

• Leah Daigle, Georgia State University