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Victimization is the event or incident
leading to a
victim state.
Victimizing events tend to be of high intensity and short
duration (e.g. robbery, assault, serious accident, sudden
death). Essentially, there are three stages of victimization:
1. Impact - Initial Reaction
All signs and symptoms of stress to
traumatic events
Emotional shock, numbness, helplessness, vulnerability.
2. Recoil
Cognitive attempts to deal with the event
Denial - trying to go on as though nothing has happened
Blaming others
Self blame - “I must have deserved this”
Obsessive - repeated return to the event and its
ramifications
Compensatory fantasies and planning - phobic reactions.
3. Reorganization
Return to a state of equilibrium
Victim calls upon supports for help
Focus on life-enhancing rather than simply existing
Obsessive fears and reactions are modulated
Victim is better able to cope with occasional flashbacks
Victim moves toward making life better rather than simply
living day-to-day.
Secondary victimization may occur because the
victim is subjected to someone who:
a) Cannot comprehend what the victim is
struggling with
b) Minimizes or disparages the experience and feelings of
the victim
c) Is in denial of their own losses and therefore it is
difficult to recognize someone else’s suffering
d) Lacks relevant information about post traumatic stress
disorder
e) Believes in the “Just World Theory” that says the world
is rational and the consequences are in accordance with
justice (people get what they deserve).
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