Discussion Paper No. 137 of 2012 on Violent Victimization in Kenya: Its Nature and Covariates

Abstract

Violent victimization among individuals is one of the policy concerns of the Government of Kenya, because it imposes economic, social and physical implications on individuals, society and the country. Establishing a more secure, social and economic living environment is therefore a key policy challenge in most developing countries. Aware of this policy concern, this study uses a Probit model to examine factors that determine violent victimization among individuals using data from the 2009/2010 Crime Victimization Survey in Kenya. In particular, the study examines the impact of individual characteristics and household characteristics on violent victimization risks (robbery, sexual assault and assault/threat). Using existent criminological theories known as routine activities/the lifestyle model, each provided explanations why and how crime and victimization are linked to individual and environmental factors; however, it is unclear whether each set of characteristics are a better rationalization for crime, thus victimization. Analysis of the data shows that individual and household characteristics influence the risks. As expected, the likelihood of being a robbery victim increases if a person is a single male with high income, living in urban areas and with no vehicle. In relation to assault, the victimization increases considerably if the person is female, single, low income and home maker. On the other hand, the likelihood of sexual assault decreases with age and increases when a person is single and participates in recreational activities less often. Evidence from the model implies that although there are characteristics that are shared by victims, not all of them influence one’s chance of becoming a victim seem significant. The study shows that risks of violent victimization are influenced by socio-demographic characteristics. Thus, policies concerning persons at risk should not be treated as homogenous group.