American Victimology

McShane and Emeka examine the varied forces that shape the criminal justice system's responses to victims in America today. They explore the historical, legal, political, economic, social, and cultural dynamics of perceptions of victims and their experiences. The text focuses on why certain victims have more access to and impact on the justice system and how policy seems to form around their needs. Readers are encouraged to theorize as to how these higher profile cases differ from the more routine victimizations that occur each day. Throughout this book, students are offered broader and more controversial definitions of victims. The authors provide critical insights into both traditional and less traditional approaches to the treatment of victim issues in our society. Upon considering the issues in this text, students will appreciate the new ideas they now hold about the role of victims in our society.