NCJ Number
95954
Date Published
1984
Length
10 pages
Annotation
Reactions by staff victims of institutional violence are described, and issues in their treatment are considered.
Abstract
Labeling aspects of the victim experience bridges all the factors in victims' responses. First, labeling with the word 'victim' precipitates an erosion of self-esteem. Second, because so-called victims are different, a distancing from significant others occurs. Overall, victims begin to view themselves and their reactions negatively. They may feel they were different from others before their victimization, or that they are now different because of their victimization. Major symptoms found in victimized staff members can be categorized as anger, fear, and depression. Biological reactions, including headaches, body tensions, appetite and sleep disturbances, and increased startle responses, accompany these reactions. Suggestions for treating the victims are provided, and their need for peer support and early, informal intervention is cited. Additionally, significant others in the victims' social and work structures may need professional intervention as well, so they can provide support for the victim. The importance of respecting victims' psychological defenses is noted, and attention is given administrative issues, such as giving victims time off from work. Staffwide interventions are also addressed.