What does the term "victimology" refer to?

Victimology refers to the academic discipline that focuses specifically on the study of victims, examining their experiences and the psychological impact of victimization. This includes analyzing how victims react to crime, the effects of trauma, and the societal responses to individuals who have been harmed. The field explores various aspects, such as the characteristics of victims, why certain individuals or groups may be more vulnerable to crime, and the broader implications for justice and support systems.

In contrast, the other choices address different aspects of criminology. For instance, some focus on the methods used by criminals, the workings of correctional facilities, or statistical analyses of crime rates. These areas are important in their own right but do not encapsulate the essence of victimology, which is centered on understanding victims and the consequences they face post-victimization.