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Supplemental Victimization Survey (SVS)
Data Collection Status
Active
Frequency
Periodically
Latest Data Available
2019
Data Experts
Rachel Morgan, Ph.D., BJS Statistician
Jennifer Truman, Ph.D., BJS Statistician
Collection Period
2006, 2016, 2019
Description
The National Crime Victimization Survey's (NCVS) Supplemental Victimization Survey (SVS) asks persons age 16 or older about their experiences with stalking during the preceding 12 months and collects information on the demographic characteristics of stalking victims. It also collects information on the nature of stalking victimization, including the number of offenders, the victim-offender relationship, and the frequency and duration of the stalking.
The SVS collects individual-level data on the prevalence of stalking victimization among persons, the characteristics of stalking victims, and patterns of reporting to the police and other authorities. Respondents were asked whether they were stalked during the 12 months prior to their interview. Stalking victimizations are classified by the year of the survey and not by the year of the victimization.
Persons who report a stalking victimization are asked more detailed questions about their victimization and their responses to it, such as the victim-offender relationship, physical and emotional consequences to the victim, self-protective measures taken, and the response of the criminal justice system. For most sections of the survey, the SVS asks stalking victims to think about the person or persons who committed these unwanted contacts or behaviors in the last 12 months when answering questions.
