Research for a resilient society
Independent criminological research – interdisciplinary, scientifically sound, practical.
Learn moreThe Criminological Research Institute of Lower Saxony
The Criminological Research Institute of Lower Saxony (KFN) sees its task as gathering evidence-based findings for the (further) development of methods and models for explaining, predicting, and controlling crime trends and phenomena. Its analyses and findings provide the basis for developing recommendations and practical knowledge for crime control and crime management. The KFN works in a field of research that is highly relevant to society and transfers its findings to the public, society, and politics in a variety of ways and formats. Its research contributes significantly to strengthening social resilience.
Research Units at KFN
The KFN is divided into three Research Units: Aetiology of Deviance, Victimology, and Institutions of Social Control, supported by a Methods Department.
Research Unit I
Aetiology of Deviance
The research unit Aetiology of Deviance explores behaviour that deviates from social norms (deviance), with a particular emphasis on violations of institutionalized legal norms (criminality). The study focuses on understanding the diverse causes contributing to deviant and criminal behaviour within the group of offenders.
Research Unit II
Victimology
The interdisciplinary research unit “Victimology” investigates crime and deviant behavior with a special focus on individual victims and their social networks, while also considering the societal and systemic implications of criminal and deviant behavior.
Research Unit III
Institutions of Social Control
The interdisciplinary research unit “Institutions of Social Control” primarily focuses on (criminal) enforcement, particularly in the context of penal and custodial measures. However, the unit also examines the work of the criminal justice system and other institutions of social control that respond to norm violations through formalized procedures (e.g., police, youth and family services, sports tribunals).
Methods Department
Observation, measurement, and analysis of crime phenomena
The Methods Department deals with the research methods and statistical procedures used in criminology for the observation, measurement, and analysis of crime phenomena. In three focus areas, methodological developments and questions are addressed from various perspectives.
KFN Publications
Our publications are an important building block for making research visible beyond the academic context. They create transparency, promote exchange between science and society, and contribute to the sustainable establishment of new knowledge. Through publications, we contribute to sharing findings, sparking new discussions, and fostering innovation.
