Date of Graduation
2008
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Type
MA
Committee Chair
S. Melissa Latimer
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to test Levin and McDevitt's Typology of Offenders theory using NIBRS data. Analysis of data from the National Incident-Based Reporting System on hate crime offenders (1995 - 2000) reveals that for thrill-seeking offenders 1) white adults age 18 and older are significantly more likely to commit hate crimes against perceived homosexuals, and 2) that white adults age 18 and older, suspected of using alcohol and/or drugs are significantly more likely to commit hate crimes against perceived homosexuals known to the victim, at the victim's residence/home. For defensive offenders, the following result was found 1) white offenders known to the victim, age 25 and older were significantly more likely to commit hate crimes at the victim's residence/home. These results show partial support for Levin and McDevitt's Typology of Offenders theory, suggesting that there is some overlap with the two offender types tested. In addition, results support the assertion that Levin and McDevitt's typology needs revised.
Recommended Citation
Momen, Rayna E., "Empirical study of hate crimes in the United States: A systematic test of Levin and McDevitt's Typology of Offenders." (2008). Graduate Theses, Dissertations, and Problem Reports (ETD). 11091.
https://researchrepository.wvu.edu/etd/11091