Lifestyle Theory
Lifestyle and exposure theory is a model of victimology that posits that the likelihood an individual will suffer a personal victimization depends heavily upon the concept of lifestyle. Specifically, certain lifestyle choices will increase the likelihood of becoming a victim. This means the victimization is not necessarily a random occurrence but is related to individual traits for both perpetrators and victims. First proposed by Hindelang, Gottfredson, and Garofalo (1978), they argued that lifestyles are patterned, and people engage in routine activities. By engaging in certain lifestyle choices, individuals increase their potential chances of victimization by putting themselves at risk of coming into contact with an offender, called the principle of homogamy. This theory focused on the choices and characteristics of the potential victims, specifically their exposure to places and situations that might increase their victimization. This is different than victim precipitation in that the victims are not necessarily playing an active role in their own victimization, but rather through their lifestyle, they are increasing exposure.
Choices that can increase victimization, according to lifestyle theory, can include the use of drugs and alcohol, especially if there are issues of addiction, significant activities outside the home at night, and other potentially risk choices. Image: Dancing at a nightclub. Author: pixabay.com. Source: https://www.pexels.com/photo/lights-party-dancing-music-2143/. License: CC-0