Risk and Protective Factors of Self-Reported Violent Victimization among People with Mental Illnesses

• In Event: Victim Impact Statements: Considerations and Consequences

Abstract

Substantial research indicates that mental illness is a risk factor for violence. Less understood, however, are the correlates of violent victimization among this population. Also not well understood are protective factors of violent victimization among the mentally ill population. Although we know this population falls victim to much criminal violence, little is known about what predicts their vulnerability to violent victimization and what factors may protect them from violent victimization. Using a longitudinal sample of 184 people with mental illnesses, we address these two questions by examining early-life and recent risk and protective factors on self-reported violent victimization. Findings are evaluated in the context of prior literature, and policy and practical implications are discussed.

Authors

• Natalie Jo Johnson, Dalton State College

• Nathan Link, Temple University