What type of displacement involves changing the focus from one victim to a more vulnerable target?

Target displacement refers to the phenomenon where an offender shifts their attention from a specific victim to another individual who is perceived as more vulnerable or easier to exploit. This change often occurs when the original target is deemed too risky or secure to attack. Offenders may assess potential victims based on factors such as their perceived vulnerability, location, or likelihood of resistance.

In this context, understanding target displacement is crucial for crime prevention strategies, as it highlights the need to protect not only the originally identified targets but also those who may be at increased risk as offenders adjust their focus. By identifying the characteristics of these easier targets, law enforcement and community safety initiatives can better allocate resources and implement strategies to deter criminal behavior.

The other types of displacement—such as tactical, spatial, and temporal—differ in their focus. Tactical displacement involves changes in the methods or strategies used by offenders; spatial displacement relates to the geographical relocation of criminal activity; and temporal displacement refers to changes in the timing of crimes. Each of these concepts has its own implications for crime analysis and prevention, but target displacement specifically addresses the shift to more vulnerable victims.