Similarities and Differences in Victimization Risk Factors for Nonoffending and Offending Substance Users

ABSTRACT

In this cross-sectional study of substance users in Norway, the authors describe the patterns of victimization and investigate the factors associated with victimization, for nonoffenders and offenders separately. Recent victimization was reported by 59%, and the victimization rate was higher among offenders compared with nonoffenders (69% and 43%, p < .001). Women, regardless of offender status, experienced more victimization. Unstable housing was associated with victimization among nonoffenders, whereas markers for more severe substance use and indicators for poor mental health were associated with victimization in both groups. Addressing these factors may be important in reducing victimization and its negative outcomes among substance users.

KEYWORDS:

• Crime
• housing
• mental health
• substance-related disorders
• substance use treatment
• victim-offender overlap
• victimization
• violence

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Acknowledgments

The authors thank their colleagues who have contributed to data collection and/or provided particular feedback on this article: Edle Ravndal, Ashley Muller, and Pål H. Lillevold. They also thank the participating treatment centers and patients.

Funding

This work was supported by the Norwegian Centre for Addiction Research.

Additional information

Funding

This work was supported by the Norwegian Centre for Addiction Research.