NCJ Number
184069
Date Published
2000
Length
28 pages
Annotation
This chapter discusses homicide in the context of the relationship that develops between the murder victim, the victim’s family members, and the murderer upon the family’s notification of the death, addressing the manner in which they are informed and the types of trauma that can be anticipated.
Abstract
In 1997, the estimated number of persons murdered in the U.S. was 18,209; the murder rate was 7 per 100,000 inhabitants. More than 48 percent of all murder victims knew their assailants: 13 percent were related and 35 percent were acquainted. The chapter considers the specific ways in which homicide is perceived by society, adjudicated by the criminal and juvenile justice systems and treated by the media. It explores research and clinical findings regarding homicide and bereavement; the scope and circumstances of homicide, along with elements unique to homicides of loved ones that negatively effect co-victims; the dynamics of death and spirituality; the impact of homicide upon co-victims and their response to it; common problems of co-victims; the victim service providers’ responses to homicide co-victims and promising practices for treatment and support of homicide co-victims. References