What is the focus of "victimology"?

Victimology is specifically concerned with understanding the psychological effects and social consequences that crime has on victims. This discipline studies how victims experience crime, the impacts these experiences have on their lives, and the broader implications for society. By focusing on the emotional and psychological repercussions, as well as the social dynamics that arise from victimization, victimology aims to contribute to better support systems for victims and inform policy and prevention strategies.

The other options touch on various aspects of criminal justice and sociology but do not encapsulate the essence of victimology. For instance, analyzing crime rates and trends primarily focuses on the phenomenon of crime itself rather than the individuals who suffer from it. Documenting police responses looks at law enforcement actions rather than the impacts on victims. The impact of crime on societal norms pertains to the broader cultural implications but does not specifically address the victim’s experience and perspective, which is central to victimology.