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Does Wealth Decrease Victimization in Property Crime?: Evidence from Thailand

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  • Teng, Yuzhe

    (Graduate School of International Relations, Ritsumeikan University, Japan)

Abstract

The relationship between wealth and property crime victimization remains debated in criminological research. This study examines this relationship using data from Thailand’s Multiple Indicator Cluster Surveys (MICS) conducted in 2019 and 2022. While the MICS wealth index serves as the primary measure, potential endogeneity issues arise from unobserved factors, such as security investments in wealthier areas. To address this, the study employs an instrumental variable Probit (IV-Probit) model. The results reveal a negative association between wealth and property crime victimization in Thailand, contradicting conventional economic theory, which assumes wealthier individuals are more attractive crime targets. This unexpected finding suggests that enhanced security measures among affluent households may effectively deter criminal activity. The study contributes to the literature by overcoming methodological limitations of past research and providing evidence-based insights for targeted crime prevention policies. Policymakers may consider strengthening security infrastructure in lower-income areas to mitigate disparities in victimization risk.

Suggested Citation

  • Teng, Yuzhe, 2025. "Does Wealth Decrease Victimization in Property Crime?: Evidence from Thailand," Asian Journal of Applied Economics/ Applied Economics Journal, Kasetsart University, Faculty of Economics, Center for Applied Economic Research, vol. 32(1), pages 15-29, January-J.
    • Handle: RePEc:ris:apecjn:0108
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    crime victimization; property crime; wealth; Thailand; instrumental variable Probit;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • C36 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Multiple or Simultaneous Equation Models; Multiple Variables - - - Instrumental Variables (IV) Estimation
    • K40 - Law and Economics - - Legal Procedure, the Legal System, and Illegal Behavior - - - General
    • K42 - Law and Economics - - Legal Procedure, the Legal System, and Illegal Behavior - - - Illegal Behavior and the Enforcement of Law

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