NCJ Number
89370
Journal
Criminologie Volume: 36 Issue: 1 Dated: special issue La peur du crime (1982) Pages: 31-49
Date Published
1983
Length
19 pages
Annotation
To gain deeper insight into victims' experiences, reactions, and attitudes, a Quebec (Canada) study interviewed victims identified by former victimization surveys.
Abstract
Interviewees were 40 merchants who had experienced armed holdups and 65 victims of tentative homicide, assault and battery, armed robbery, sexual assault, abduction, and burglary as well as relatives of homicide victims. Respondents' comments are quoted to illustrate their immediate feelings as the incident was taking place, their subsequently persisting fear, the preventive measures they have taken to avoid future victimization, and their expressions of tolerance or vindictiveness against the assailants. The respondents were terrified during the incident and remained fearful and suspicious for a long time afterwards. Some victims feared reprisals from their former assailants, and some generalized their apprehension to similar situations or persons (e.g., rape victims extended their distrust to all men, burglary victims were frightened of entering their homes alone). Others suffered insomnia, left their jobs if the victimization was work-related, avoided deserted streets, or any threatening new situation. All have taken some form of preventive measures, e.g., from new locks and alarms to acquiring guard dogs, moving, and taking self-defense courses. Responses regarding the type of punishment deserved by their assailants indicated that some were interested in restitution and conciliation, but others refused any contact with the offenders. Most did not demand penalties more severe than those cited in surveys of the general public. A total of 14 references are given.