Bounding (in victim surveys)

Victim surveys are used to assess the nature and extent of victimization in different populations. The surveys help researchers to understand if particular groups in society are more or less at risk of being victimized. They also help to uncover trends in patterns of victimization so that efforts can be made to reduce populations at risk. Bounding is a technique used in victim surveys to address respondent fatigue. Bounding is the practice of asking a series of questions that focus on one aspect of victimization (i.e., physical abuse) before “bouncing” to another, unrelated aspect (i.e., property crime). Bounding helps the respondent to stay focused and can help to reduce the burden of lengthy surveys.