NCJ Number
234884
Date Published
2008
Length
0 pages
Annotation
This video, which is designed to be used in training victim-witness advocates, addresses how victim-witness advocates should deal with cultural differences between themselves and the crime victims for whom they provide services.
Abstract
The format of the video presentation consists of relevant comments by victim-witness advocates and victims concerning the impact and management of cultural differences between advocates and the victims they serve. The video first defines culture as the particular environment that conditions an individual's language, beliefs, values, attitudes, and behaviors. Both advocates and victims have been strongly influenced by the cultures that have molded them. This video is intended to help victim-witness advocates in being aware of and managing such cultural differences. One of the topics addressed is the "personal bias" of the advocate. Upon recognizing the cultural differences that may exist between an advocate and a victim, the advocate must identify and constructively control any negative or demeaning attitudes he/she may hold for persons with the victim's cultural background. In addition, advocates must familiarize themselves with the beliefs, values, behaviors, and attitudes likely to characterize individuals from various cultural backgrounds. Of particular concern should be language differences and communication issues, the victim's fear of the criminal justice system and those who represent it, and the types of pressure the victim may experience due to the attitudes of his/her cultural community. The video advises that victim-witness advocates should receive ongoing training about various cultures represented within the United States and how these differences may impact the victims' interactions with the criminal justice system and its representatives.