self-reported crime

Self-reported crime refers to a method of data collection where individuals disclose their own involvement in criminal activities, usually through surveys or interviews. This approach contrasts with official crime statistics, which rely on police reports and legal records. Self-reported crime data provides insights into the prevalence of various offenses, including those that may go unreported to authorities. It can reveal deeper understanding of criminal behavior, motivations, and the potential underreporting of crime, as not all crimes are reported to law enforcement. This method is often used in criminological research and sociological studies.