An Analysis and Comparison of State-Level Victim Services Needs Assessments

• In Event: Let's Support Victims

Abstract

At the state level, a number of assessments exploring the needs of local crime victims have been conducted in recent years. These needs assessments have collected information regarding needs and barriers from the perspectives of service providers as well as victims. Some assessments have explored needs of crime victims broadly, while others have focused on services for victims of specific crime types. Using content analysis, the findings and recommendations across state-level needs assessments were examined. Common themes and state-specific findings are identified. Findings are also discussed in the context of federally driven initiatives for the advancement of victim services, such as Vision 21.

Authors

• Lane Kirkland Gillespie, Boise State University

• Lisa Growette Bostaph, Boise State University

• Laura King, Boise State University

• Amanda Goodson, Sam Houston State University