NCJ Number
120542
Date Published
1989
Length
7 pages
Annotation
Elements in the psychological profiling of crime victims include physical traits, occupation, medical history, last activities, marital status, education, psychosexual history, personal lifestyle and demography, and court history.
Abstract
Probably no single element in the criminal profiling process has been neglected more than the victim. For this reason, the Federal Bureau of Investigation's Behavioral Science Unit is actively obtaining data on social and behavior characteristics and the reputation of victims. One of the most obvious elements in victim profiling is the physical description. In addition, as much as possible should be known about the victim's marital status and about the victim's daily activities and character. Knowing the victim's occupation and educational level expands the network of relationships. Further, the location of the victim's residence may play an important role in the victimization process. Benefits of knowing the victim's medical history include information on communicable diseases and corpse identification. In developing any psychological profile of the victim, special attention should be paid to sexual history, personality, court history, and victim activities prior to the crime. 1 table.