Reference no: EM133720883

Examining the Marginalisation of Homeless Victims of Violence: A Critical Analysis Introduction Victimology, the study of victims and their interactions with crime and society, has increasingly recognized the unique challenges faced by homeless individuals. In Australia, the homelessness crisis is profound, with the Australian Bureau of Statistics (2021) reporting 122,494 people experiencing homelessness on the night of the latest census. This essay explores the marginalisation of homeless victims of violence, utilising victimological theories such as the 'ideal victim' and secondary victimisation to investigate the societal and systemic biases that exacerbate their plight (Christie, 1986). The discussion will further integrate empirical data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics to contextualise these issues within contemporary Australian society, reflecting on how societal attitudes and legal frameworks shape the experiences of these individuals.

Theoretical Background: Ideal Victim and Secondary Victimisation Christie's (1986) concept of the 'ideal victim' posits that societal support often depends on the victim's perceived innocence and vulnerability. Homeless individuals frequently do not meet these criteria due to prevailing stereotypes and societal prejudices, impacting their portrayal in the media and treatment in the legal system (Christie, 1986). This misalignment with the 'ideal victim' image results in a diminished societal response to their victimisation.