Scientists have attempted to determine how a victim’s background and characteristics impact the effects of victimization. A recent study of the psychological impact of robbery looked closely at how victim characteristics, including demographic factors, are related to trauma, or Acute Stress Disorder (ASD). The study looked at several criteria of ASD, including anxiety, depression, feelings of insecurity, and other psychological reactions. This study noted that previous research had found inconclusive results regarding the correlation between age and adverse psychological symptoms. Findings of gender differences also were inconsistent, although some research found females more vulnerable to adverse symptoms (Elklit, 2002).
Elklit’s study of robbery victims found a correlation between age and the degree of trauma following the robbery: the older the individual, the greater the likelihood of trauma. Similarly, there were gender differences; women showed more intrusive symptoms. Elklit also found that level of education was related to outcomes; the higher the level of education, the lower the occurrence of psychological symptoms. This finding corroborated the findings in previous studies cited in the literature review (Elklit, 2002).
For this Assignment, review the two clips in this week’s Interactive Community. Consider the short- and long-term effects of the crime on each of the victims. Think about how these effects may vary according to age, race, gender, education, and occupation.
The Assignment (2–3 pages):
- Visit the Interactive Community and follow the instructions to access this week’s media.
- Explain three effects that each victim may experience (one psychological, one social, and one emotional). Explain to what extent each effect might be short-term or long-term.
- Explain how the demographics of each victim might influence the short- and long-term effects.
