What is meant by the term "victimization" in criminology?

Victimization in criminology refers specifically to the harm or suffering that individuals experience as a result of criminal activity. This concept encompasses a wide range of experiences, from physical harm and emotional trauma to financial loss and social displacement. Understanding victimization is essential in criminology, as it helps researchers and practitioners analyze the impact of crime on individuals and society, and subsequently develop more effective crime prevention strategies and support systems for victims. By focusing on the experiences of victims, criminologists can better understand the motivations behind criminal behavior and the broader societal implications of crime.