The Victims, Essay Example

Psychology of Rape

An attack of rape on a victim can be one of the most traumatic experiences a person suffers. The woman experiences a range of emotional feelings including that of guilt, shame, embarrassment and violation. The act of violence also causes trauma and fear and the psychological damage may last several years or more. In recent years there has been the added fear of a woman contracting HIV/AIDS as a result of  rape.  This added dimension has further raised the fear factor and psychological distress of such an incident.  The main psychological state of a rape victim is that of trauma and the fear of going to be killed.  This leads to a state of shock and then extreme anger or outrage as the victim.  The essential betrayal of trust of people may take a long time to adjust.

Psychology of Armed Robbery

Victims of an armed robbery situation are very likely to experience posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD).  The victim has been through a life-threatening situation. The degree of suffering often relates to the amount of physical abuse or injury the victim has faced. It can cause a lack of sleep and frequent nightmares recalling the situation.  Research studies indicate that victims experience a high level of distress, trauma and difficulty in coping with daily life or the period of adjustment after the violation. (Kinner, S.A.  1998)

Psychology of Burglary

Victims of burglary feel a sense of invasion of personal space and intrusion into their private lives.  The impact can have a deep psychological effect on the householder. A sense of fear, vulnerability and fear of attack.  This particularly relates to the more vulnerable people of society e.g. the elderly who are less able to cope with distress and trauma.  Female victims also lose the protective feeling of their dwelling and become fearful of being alone in the house. (Maguire, M. 1980)

Works Cited

Kinner, C. A. (1998). Correlates of Psychological Distress following armed robbery. New York: Journal of Traumatic Stress, Vol. 11, No, 4.

Maguire, M. (1980). The Impact Of Burglary Upon Victims. British Journal of Criminology, 261-275.