The theory of routine activities is a relatively popular theoretical perspective in modern criminology. One of the advantages of this theory is that it places the source of violent crime within the realm of regular human activity. The situational approach to violent crime further develops this idea, arguing that violence arises from a situational process between the victim and the perpetrator.
According to the theory of routine activity, crime and victimization result from a unique complex of dynamic interactions, including six phases (Choi & Jung, 2021). In the first phase, the victim usually commits an act considered by the offender as an insult to his self-esteem. In the second phase, the attacker checks the significance of the victim’s immediate action, often consulting witnesses and observers. The primary reaction of the attacker is the third phase, during which the vast majority of attackers respond to the victim in the form of a verbal challenge. It usually contains demands on the victim to stop the actions. In the fourth phase, the victim continues the negotiation process, explicitly agreeing to escalate violence and refusing to comply with the attacker’s demands expressed in the third phase. Thus, already in the fifth phase, the actual use of violence began.
According to the basic concept, violence is a dynamic, social, and interactive phenomenon that can be fully understood by studying the behavior of the perpetrator and the victim. In addition, it is necessary to analyze their reactions at each phase of the interaction process while not forgetting the role of others factors. For example, carrying a gun is part of a risky lifestyle in the same way as finding entertainment in the company of others in public places.
Thus, violence and victimization from the perspective of the theory of routine activities are based on social tension and social disorganization theory. The essence of the theory is closely related to the presence of certain social ideals and people who cannot achieve them for several different reasons. Therefore, the only working strategy for them in such a situation is to take what they think is rightfully theirs by force.
Reference
Choi, J., & Jung, H. (2021). Predictors of individuals’ behavioral characteristics of routine activities theory: Analysis of a synthesis model of socioeconomic status, victimization, and fear of crime. International Journal of Criminology and Sociology, 10(1), 808-821.