Measuring Grief, Perceptions, and Expectations of Homicide Survivors

• In Event: Victimology from a System Perspective: What Victims Want and How the System Operates

Abstract

Despite the efforts of law enforcement, community programming, and concerned residents, homicide rates continue to fluctuate. Each homicide leaves behind a grieving family who must make sense of the tragic death of their loved one. Survey data collected from homicide survivors was analyzed to assess the well being of these surviving family members. Results reveal the survivors’ fears and struggles, survivors’ perceptions and expectations of law enforcement, and the unique challenges for cold case homicide survivors. Recommendations are provided for the development of a more productive relationship between police and the families of homicide victims.

Author

• Ashley Wellman, University of Central Missouri