Victimology is the study of:

Victimology focuses specifically on understanding how individuals become victims of crime. This field examines the relationships between victims and offenders, the societal response to victims, and the patterns and factors that contribute to victimization. It encompasses various aspects, including the characteristics of victims, the context of victimization, and the impact of crime on the victims' lives. By studying victimology, researchers can identify risk factors associated with victimization, apply this knowledge to prevention efforts, and enhance support systems for victims.

The other options touch on relevant areas within the broader criminal justice field but do not accurately capture the essence of victimology. Legal justice principles relate more to the legal system's functioning, community safety concerns address crime's impact on society at large, and motivations behind criminal behavior pertain to criminology rather than victimization. Thus, recognizing that victimology centers on individuals' experiences and circumstances leading to their victimization clarifies why the choice referring to how individuals become victims is the most accurate.