The Interrelationships between Victimization, Fear, and Acculturation among Asian Immigrants

Abstract

The current research addresses fear of crime, acculturation, criminal justice understanding, and victimization measures in a sample of Asian immigrants in Harris County, Texas. Data stems from research conducted by Kercher and Kuo (2008). This study includes 729 surveys completed by adult Chinese, Korean, Vietnamese, and Taiwanese immigrants at community centers and churches in 2007. Findings suggest significant differences in fear of crime (and to a lesser extent in variations of acculturation) and understanding of the criminal justice system when controlling for victimization status. Support was absent in bivariate and multivariate analysis for ethnic differences in victimization. Additional findings indicate that reporting victimization only significantly varies based on time spent in the United States. Discussion of findings, future directions, and policy recommendations (including community mobilization and educational efforts) are provided.

Keywords:

• victimization
• immigrants
• fear of crime
• acculturation
• Asian