Resume
Factors Influencing Crime Reporting: An Analysis of Victims’ Perspectives Based on Sociodemographic Characteristics
PhDr. Ivana Olecká, Ph.D., Police Academy of the Czech Republic in Prague, Faculty of Security and Law, Department of Criminology
Abstract
This article examines the factors influencing victims’ decisions to report or not report criminal incidents. Drawing on survey data, the study analyses variations in the reporting behaviour based on victims’ gender, age, and education attained. Data was collected from a total of 550 respondents aged 15 and over across the Czech Republic, 138 of whom were crime victims. The sample is representative in terms of age, gender, and education. The study focuses on motivations for reporting (such as the desire to punish the offender, obtain assistance, or receive compensation) as well as barriers to reporting (such as lack of trust in the police, minimising the harm, or fear of retaliation), and examines differences between sociodemographic groups in the reasons the influence their decision-making process. These patterns suggest that personal and structural factors jointly shape the victim’s behaviour in the aftermath of crime. The study contributes to a better understanding of victims’ decision-making processes and highlights the importance of targeted policies that address specific barriers faced by different population groups. Insights from this research may support the development of more responsive victim support systems and promote increased crime reporting rates.
Keywords: crime, victim, reporting behaviour, decision-making, security.