Fostering Agency for Survivors in Victimization Courses

• In Event: Lightning Talk: Advancing Critical Pedagogies: Trauma, Agency, Safety, and Inclusion in Criminology Classrooms

Abstract

Many of our students have a personal draw to the field of criminology, including many who have experienced victimization personally. While this often makes them passionate affect change in the field, it also increases the likelihood for trauma-responses during class that may disrupt their educational journey. This lightning chat will suggest multiple approaches to increase agency in the classroom for survivors and all studies alike, which can help to reduce retraumatization for those who have experienced victimization. Strategies will include tips on syllabi, classroom management approaches, and assignment types.  

Author

• Kathleen Ratajczak, Sam Houston State University