NCJ Number
136055
Date Published
1990
Length
14 pages
Annotation
This handbook discusses issues and structures for the networking of victim services and organization at the local, State, and national levels.
Abstract
The introduction describes six types of victim-service networks based upon their primary interest(s) and lists potential problems with networks. The latter include disagreements, personality conflicts, organizational conflicts, lack of resources, and failure to confront conflict. In defining "networking," the handbook indicates it is "a system of ongoing interaction by which all participants benefit." Networks consist of lines of communication among individuals, agencies, associations, organizations, and institutions as well as between networks. Some goals listed for networking are information dissemination, legislative initiatives, skills, development, conflict resolution, mutual support, program development, interagency communication, technical assistance, resource development, and training. An outline of networking theory is followed by a description of the characteristics of networking in the victims' movement. The latter notes that networking has been successful for years in the victims' movement under a loosely structured system, and recent efforts have been underway to formalize networks at the State and local levels. A basic networking goal has been advocacy for change in the status quo regarding victim services. The handbook concludes with guidelines for establishing and maintaining a formal network along with some myths and facts about networks.