ABSTRACT
The authors discuss whether house burglary, commonly considered a property crime, may be better regarded as an interpersonal interaction. The basis for this argument is the evidence that shows the psychological effect burglary has on the victim. They discuss the home as an ‘extension of the self and the psychological effect intrusion upon the home has on the victim. The authors move on to discuss their own research investigating two proposed facets of craft and personal narrative. Thirtyfour crime scene behaviours were analysed using a SSA on 60 crimes. The authors identify four themes: Intruders, Pilferers, Raiders and Invaders each displaying its own level of craft and narrative. They conclude that there is evidence for discussing burglary in terms of an interpersonal interaction, that the four themes found each display had different qualities of interaction and hence hold a different significance for the victim.
