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Post-Traumatic Stress Responses to Victims of Violent Crime - Information for Law Enforcement Officials (From Psychological Services for Law Enforcement, P 341-350, 1986, J Reese and H A Goldstein, eds. - See NCJ-104098)

NCJ Number
104118
Author(s)
C J Frederick
Date Published
1986
Length
10 pages
Annotation
Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which is common in victims of violent crime, can be relieved by police officers through appropriate officer demeanor and actions in interaction with such victims.
Abstract
PTSD signs and symptoms are the presence of a severe stressor; a re-experiencing of the traumatic event; emotional detachment and withdrawal from previous interests; and symptoms not present prior to the stressful event, such as nervousness, fitful sleeping, guilt, and difficulty concentrating. These symptoms are common in victims of such violent crimes as aggravated assaults, rape, robbery, and child molestation. Police contacting such victims can help relieve the severity of PTSD by displaying composure, offering supportive remarks that do not constitute false reassurance, providing accurate information about help that will be given the victim, removing the victim from stressful circumstances associated with the incident, not questioning the victim until psychological and physical equilibrium have been restored, and proceeding with a clear plan of help for the victim. Other help officers can provide includes meeting with the victim's relatives and friends, using the victim's personal resources, and adapting to victim needs. PTSD symptoms have also been observed in crisis workers who deal with victims of various catastrophes, producing what is called 'burnout.' At a suitable time, incident specific treatment is required for PTSD to prevent prolonged and worsening symptoms. A reaction index form for victims of a severe stressor and 13 references.