Read Item A below and answer the question that follows - AQA - A-Level Sociology - Question 3 - 2022 - Paper 3

Reason 1: Limited Access to Resources

One primary reason for social class differences in becoming a victim of crime is the disparity in access to resources among different socio-economic classes. Individuals from lower socio-economic backgrounds often have less access to financial resources, which can lead to a higher risk of victimization. For instance, they may live in areas with inadequate security, making them more susceptible to crimes such as burglary and theft. Furthermore, they may lack the financial means to afford safety measures like alarm systems or neighborhood watch programs, further increasing their vulnerability.

Reason 2: Exposure to Crime

Another reason relates to the sociological phenomenon where individuals from lower social classes are more frequently exposed to environments with higher crime rates. As indicated in Item A, higher levels of violence are often recorded in these areas. This exposure can manifest in various forms, such as direct interaction with criminal behavior or simply living in neighborhoods known for higher crime rates. This situational factor not only increases their chances of becoming victims but also creates a cycle where criminal behavior becomes normalized, perpetuating fear and further victimization in these communities.