The Perspectives of Victim Advocates on Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence Victims

• In Event: Poster Session I

Abstract

Sexual assault and domestic violence victims face an array of physical, mental, and emotional consequences stemming from their victimizations. These victims can also have impactful experiences while they navigate the criminal justice process. While previous studies have begun to examine how criminal justice practitioners react to victims of these crimes, there is a dearth of information surrounding the perceptions victim advocates have on victims of sexual assault and domestic violence. Therefore, based on interviews with 11 victim advocates, this study examined the perspectives victim advocates have on victims of sexual assault and domestic violence. Study results indicated that victim advocates felt strongly about empowering the victim, and noted they worked with female victims more often than male victims.

Authors

• Rebecca Coleman, Niagara University

• Dana Radatz, Niagara University