Publication Date: April 2009
Module 2: The Victim Experience
Helping Crime Victims
Many victims suffer greatly as a result of a crime. The suffering could be financial, but often it is emotionally devastating as well.
Crime victims' normal equilibrium is disturbed by this stressful event (TRAUMA); they go through an emotional reaction process (CRISIS); and after a period of resolution, they return to their normal equilibrium (RECOVERY).
If individuals suffer too much stress from a single trauma or from too many small traumas in a short time, then they may not be able to pass through the crisis period and complete their recovery.
This is where a crisis intervention comes in—the counselor provides the necessary external support and assistance to help a victim in crisis regain his or her equilibrium.
To accomplish this, a Good Samaritan must understand the stages and nature of trauma.
Moreover, a Good Samaritan must have a keen understanding of his or her own motives and capabilities.
