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Crim - Unit 1- AC1.2 - Reasons crimes go unreported
793
•
6 Jul 2025
•
Why People Don't Tell About Crimes: Easy to Understand Examples
Carmen
@c4rm3n_77
Social and Cultural Reasons for Unreported Crimes
Social and cultural factors significantly contribute to the underreporting of crimes, further expanding the dark figure of crime statistics. This section explores various reasons why crimes may go unreported from a societal perspective.
Lack of knowledge is a primary factor in crime underreporting. Many individuals may be unaware that a particular action constitutes a crime or may not know the proper procedures for reporting it.
Example: In cases of cyberbullying, victims may not realize that they can report the abuse or may not know how to block or report abusive users on social media platforms.
The complexity of certain crimes can deter reporting. Some offenses, particularly white-collar crimes, are intricate and difficult for the average person to understand or detect.
Definition: White-collar crime refers to financially motivated, nonviolent crime committed by business and government professionals.
Highlight: The complexity of white-collar crimes often makes them challenging to identify and report, contributing to their underreporting.
Lack of media interest in certain types of crimes can lead to reduced public awareness and, consequently, lower reporting rates. Media outlets may prioritize sensational crimes over more common but less dramatic offenses.
Example: Murder cases are more likely to receive media coverage and public attention compared to underage drinking incidents.
The absence of current public concern about specific offenses can result in underreporting. If a particular behavior is widely practiced and not considered deviant by society, people may be less inclined to report it as a crime.
Example: Downloading music illegally is often not reported because it's a common practice and many people don't consider it a serious offense.
Culture-bound crimes present a unique challenge in crime reporting. These are offenses that may be acceptable or even encouraged within certain cultural or religious contexts but are considered crimes in the broader society.
Vocabulary: Culture-bound crimes are offenses that are specific to or accepted within particular cultural or religious groups.
Example: Honour killings, while illegal, may be accepted in some cultures or religions as part of tradition. Outsiders may hesitate to report such incidents to avoid interfering with cultural practices.
Understanding these social and cultural factors is essential for developing comprehensive strategies to address unreported crime statistics and improve the accuracy of crime data. By recognizing these barriers to reporting, law enforcement and policymakers can work towards creating more effective reporting mechanisms and public awareness campaigns.
Personal Reasons for Unreported Crimes
Personal factors play a significant role in why certain crimes go unreported. This section explores various personal reasons that contribute to the dark figure of crime.
Fear is a primary factor in crime underreporting. Victims may fear retaliation from the perpetrator or worry about the consequences of reporting the crime. This is particularly relevant in cases of domestic abuse and hate crimes.
Example: In cases of domestic abuse or honour crimes, victims may fear further violence or social repercussions if they report the incident.
Shame and embarrassment can also prevent victims from reporting crimes, especially in cases of sexual assault and rape. Victims may feel humiliated or blame themselves for the incident, leading to reluctance in seeking help or justice.
Highlight: Shame can be a powerful deterrent in reporting sexual crimes, as victims may not want friends or family to know about their perceived inability to defend themselves.
Disinterest or lack of personal impact is another reason for underreporting. If an individual is not directly affected by a crime or perceives it as insignificant, they may choose not to report it.
Example: Witnessing a homeless person using drugs may not prompt reporting if the observer feels unaffected or uninterested in the situation.
Some individuals may not report crimes if they feel it doesn't concern them personally or expect someone else to take action. This bystander effect can lead to significant underreporting of crimes like vandalism, criminal damage, or vagrancy.
Vocabulary: Bystander effect refers to the phenomenon where individuals are less likely to offer help or take action in an emergency situation when other people are present.
Understanding these personal reasons for not reporting crime is crucial for developing strategies to encourage reporting and address the consequences of unreported crime.
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The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
Why People Don't Tell About Crimes: Easy to Understand Examples
Carmen
@c4rm3n_77
The dark figure of crime and reasons for unreported crime are crucial topics in criminology. This summary explores personal, social, and cultural factors contributing to crime underreporting.
- Personal reasons include fear, shame, disinterest, and potential consequences for victims.
- Social and... Show more
Social and Cultural Reasons for Unreported Crimes
Social and cultural factors significantly contribute to the underreporting of crimes, further expanding the dark figure of crime statistics. This section explores various reasons why crimes may go unreported from a societal perspective.
Lack of knowledge is a primary factor in crime underreporting. Many individuals may be unaware that a particular action constitutes a crime or may not know the proper procedures for reporting it.
Example: In cases of cyberbullying, victims may not realize that they can report the abuse or may not know how to block or report abusive users on social media platforms.
The complexity of certain crimes can deter reporting. Some offenses, particularly white-collar crimes, are intricate and difficult for the average person to understand or detect.
Definition: White-collar crime refers to financially motivated, nonviolent crime committed by business and government professionals.
Highlight: The complexity of white-collar crimes often makes them challenging to identify and report, contributing to their underreporting.
Lack of media interest in certain types of crimes can lead to reduced public awareness and, consequently, lower reporting rates. Media outlets may prioritize sensational crimes over more common but less dramatic offenses.
Example: Murder cases are more likely to receive media coverage and public attention compared to underage drinking incidents.
The absence of current public concern about specific offenses can result in underreporting. If a particular behavior is widely practiced and not considered deviant by society, people may be less inclined to report it as a crime.
Example: Downloading music illegally is often not reported because it's a common practice and many people don't consider it a serious offense.
Culture-bound crimes present a unique challenge in crime reporting. These are offenses that may be acceptable or even encouraged within certain cultural or religious contexts but are considered crimes in the broader society.
Vocabulary: Culture-bound crimes are offenses that are specific to or accepted within particular cultural or religious groups.
Example: Honour killings, while illegal, may be accepted in some cultures or religions as part of tradition. Outsiders may hesitate to report such incidents to avoid interfering with cultural practices.
Understanding these social and cultural factors is essential for developing comprehensive strategies to address unreported crime statistics and improve the accuracy of crime data. By recognizing these barriers to reporting, law enforcement and policymakers can work towards creating more effective reporting mechanisms and public awareness campaigns.
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Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Personal Reasons for Unreported Crimes
Personal factors play a significant role in why certain crimes go unreported. This section explores various personal reasons that contribute to the dark figure of crime.
Fear is a primary factor in crime underreporting. Victims may fear retaliation from the perpetrator or worry about the consequences of reporting the crime. This is particularly relevant in cases of domestic abuse and hate crimes.
Example: In cases of domestic abuse or honour crimes, victims may fear further violence or social repercussions if they report the incident.
Shame and embarrassment can also prevent victims from reporting crimes, especially in cases of sexual assault and rape. Victims may feel humiliated or blame themselves for the incident, leading to reluctance in seeking help or justice.
Highlight: Shame can be a powerful deterrent in reporting sexual crimes, as victims may not want friends or family to know about their perceived inability to defend themselves.
Disinterest or lack of personal impact is another reason for underreporting. If an individual is not directly affected by a crime or perceives it as insignificant, they may choose not to report it.
Example: Witnessing a homeless person using drugs may not prompt reporting if the observer feels unaffected or uninterested in the situation.
Some individuals may not report crimes if they feel it doesn't concern them personally or expect someone else to take action. This bystander effect can lead to significant underreporting of crimes like vandalism, criminal damage, or vagrancy.
Vocabulary: Bystander effect refers to the phenomenon where individuals are less likely to offer help or take action in an emergency situation when other people are present.
Understanding these personal reasons for not reporting crime is crucial for developing strategies to encourage reporting and address the consequences of unreported crime.
We thought you’d never ask...
What is the Knowunity AI companion?
Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.
Where can I download the Knowunity app?
You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
Is Knowunity really free of charge?
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.
Students love us — and so will you.
4.9/5
App Store
4.8/5
Google Play
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user