Metaphors of Loss: Murder, Bereavement, Gender and Presentation of the "Victimized" Self

• NCJ Number: 199236
• Journal: International Review of Victimology Volume: 9 Issue: 3 Dated: 2002 Pages: 219-251
• Author(s): J. Scott Kenney
• Date Published: 2002
• Length: 33 pages
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Report (Study/Research)
• Language: English
• Country: United Kingdom

Annotation

This article discusses the impact of loss on survivors of murdered loved ones.

Abstract

The loss of a loved one through homicide can be a debilitating and lifelong experience that affects the core of a survivor’s being. There are three theoretical positions that can be taken when considering the significance of homicide for self: developmental, existential, and pragmatic. Each of these positions can be found in literature on victimization, self, and bereavement. Using qualitative methods, the data for this study included intensive interviews with survivors, surveys, and analysis of homicide files. The survivors articulated a series of metaphors to illustrate the impact of the crime, which are called metaphors of loss. These attempted to convey the effect of homicide on those close to the deceased. The single most common metaphors expressed by survivors were those asserting a generalized loss of self. The next frequent type of metaphor were those claiming that they had presently suffered a personal loss of future that was by its very nature permanent. The third most common metaphor was the view that survivors felt personally violated by the murder; and that this left behind a devastation that penetrated to the very core of their being. The next most frequent metaphor of loss was “being a different person now.” The fifth metaphor was loss of control. Lost innocence was the final metaphor of loss. While all of the metaphors were expressed across gender lines, all except loss of control were predominantly expressed by the female gender. The impact of loss in parental bereavement was the most severe and long lasting. These metaphors suggest that parental bereavement may have a more profound impact on the self than other types of loss. Results also show that the more intimate the familial ties, the greater not only the loss, but also the deeper the meanings that emerge for self -- and for others. These metaphors should help provide a practical, integrating foundation in the future course of research in this area. 22 notes, 84 references