Risk Factors of Poly-Victimization and the Impact on Delinquency in Youth: A Systematic Review

Abstract

There is a link between antisocial behaviors and poly-victimization, showing that poly-victims have a high probability of engaging in delinquency. These victims show difficulties in self-regulation across multiple biopsychosocial domains. This review examined the impact of poly-victimization on delinquent behaviors in youth. B-on, Google Scholar, PubMed, and EBSCO databases were systematically searched to identify relevant studies published, resulting in 16 publications. Results identified the most common risk factors for poly-victimization and how these cumulative risk factors are more predictive of poly-victimization. Also, this phenomenon significantly increases the likelihood of adopting delinquent behavior and the predisposition to develop psychological problems. The results further highlight the psychological impact caused by poly-victimization, and how can influence the adoption of delinquent behaviors.