😢🤝 Quick Overview
This chapter covers the impact of crime on victims, psychological reactions to victimization, and victim support services.
📊 Types of Victims
- Violent crime victims (assault, robbery)
- Sexual violence victims
- Domestic violence victims
- Child abuse victims
- Property crime victims
- Cybercrime victims
- Homicide survivors (families)
💔 Psychological Impact of Crime
Immediate Reactions:
Shock, fear, distress, confusion, anger, self-blame.
Short-Term (Days to Weeks):
Anxiety, sleep disturbance, depression, intrusive thoughts, avoidance, appetite changes, difficulty functioning.
Long-Term (Months to Years):
PTSD, chronic depression, anxiety disorders, substance abuse, relationship problems, low self-esteem, changed worldview.
😱 PTSD Symptoms (4 Clusters)
- Re-experiencing: Intrusive memories, nightmares, flashbacks, triggered distress
- Avoidance: Avoiding places/people, trying not to think, emotional numbing
- Negative cognitions/mood: Negative beliefs, persistent negative emotions, loss of interest, feeling detached
- Hyperarousal: Hypervigilance, sleep problems, irritability, exaggerated startle