The Third Edition of this widely used and respected book has been thoroughly revised and updated to offer the most current research, thinking, and best practices regarding crime victims and crime victim services. Using an engaging and comprehensible format, editors Robert C. Davis, Arthur J. Lurigio, and Susan Herman provide a synopsis of the contemporary literature and debates on significant topics in the field of criminal victimization. New to the Third Edition: Utilizes the latest research and studies in the areas of violence, abuse, and victims' rights: While the chapter titles may appear similar, all feature new contributors in this edition and many new key areas with associated research are addressed. Included among the new topics covered are elder abuse, school-based violence, victims of homicide, victims of terrorist acts, the role of first responders, and the roles of various people on victim support. Focuses on the emerging issues and policies in the fields of victim rights and crime prevention: New contributors, all preeminent experts in their fields, update original concepts to bring forward current trends, recent research, along with policy changes in victimization crimes and victim services. Makes material more accessible to the non-technical reader: Written jargon-free, chapters are now introduced with vignettes, which provide individual case studies to motivate the material to follow. In addition, the text includes topical subjects to enhance student interest by tying it into current events. Intended Audience: This is an ideal core textbook for victims of crime and general victims courses at the advanced undergraduate and graduate levels. It is also an excellent resource for researchers, practitioners, victims' rights advocates, and those who deal with victims in the fields of Law, Social Work, Counseling, and Criminal Justice.