The Bureau of Justice Statistics uses data from which survey?

• A. National Crime Victimization Survey
• B. Uniform Crime Reports
• C. National Health Interview Survey
• D. Current Population Survey

Answer: (A)

BJS relies on the National Crime Victimization Survey to assess crime victimization nationwide. This survey is a national household interview program designed to capture crimes experienced by people, including those that never come to the attention of police. By asking individuals about the types of offenses, when they occurred, where, and the characteristics of victims and incidents, the NCVS provides estimates of total victimization, not just crimes reported to law enforcement. This makes it the most relevant data source for BJS when measuring the scope and nature of crime from the victim’s perspective.

In contrast, the Uniform Crime Reports are a police-record-based compilation of offenses known to law enforcement, which doesn't capture unreported crimes. The National Health Interview Survey and the Current Population Survey focus on health and employment/demographics, respectively, and do not provide data on crime victimization.