Consequences of Identity Theft Victimization: Disabilities and Mental Distress

Abstract

This study contributes to the growing literature on consequences of identity theft victimization as well as the broader literature on disabilities and victimization by exploring the connection between mental distress and disability status of an identity theft victim. This study analyzes data from the 2018 iteration of the National Crime Victimization Survey Identity Theft Supplement. Specifically, through logistic regression analysis, this study examines if severe mental distress experienced by identity theft victims varies in relation to their disability status and disability type. Identity theft victims with physical disabilities and multiple forms of disabilities are more likely than individuals with no disabilities to experience severe mental distress after their identity theft victimization. Practice and research implications are discussed.