Surviving the Label: Testing the Framing Effect of “victim” vs. “survivor” in Crime Victimisation Narratives

• In Event: Using Experimental Methods to Explore Criminological Topics

Abstract

The terminology used to describe and refer to individuals affected by crime has evolved, shifting from “victim” to “survivor.” While some argue that the term “survivor” empowers individuals by emphasizing their agency and potentially reducing the crime’s negative impact, its influence on external perceptions remains under-explored. This study examines how the language used to describe individuals affected by crime—specifically the labels “victim” and “survivor”—influences public perceptions of deservingness and support. If this terminology shift diminishes perceived ideal victim status, it could lead to unintended consequences, such as reduced public sympathy and support. Drawing on the theoretical framework of the “ideal victim,” which suggests that certain attributes (e.g., lack of agency) render individuals more likely to receive sympathy and assistance, this research explores the broader implications of framing in crime victimization narratives. Employing a pre-registered factorial survey experiment (with Open Science Foundation) with a nationally representative sample of adult U.S. residents, participants were randomly assigned to one of several vignette conditions that systematically varied both the terminology used (i.e., “victim” versus “survivor”) and the type of crime depicted (sexual assault versus cyber sextortion).

Author

• Zarina Vakhitova, Monash University