Crime Victimization: Assessing Differences Between Cultures

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Experiencing a criminal victimization is among one of the most stressful human experiences. Individuals who are victims of crimes cope differently to reduce, tolerate or master the victimization and ensuing emotional distress. It is unclear whether there are ethnic differences in regard to the stress and coping process among victims of crime. The current study examines culture differences in victimization experiences. This article examines ethnic differences in coping strategies, levels of depression, PTSD, anger, anxiety, social support, and well-being of victims of violent and non violent crimes. A community sample of one-hundred and seventy-five victims of different types of crimes were recruited and interviewed face-to-face. The findings suggest different relationships between types of coping strategies and well being by culture.

Stream: Ethnicity, Difference, Identity

Paper: A paper has not yet been submitted.

I received my PhD in Social Work from the University of Texas at Austin. I am currently employed by the School of Social Work at Florida Atlantic University in Jupiter, Florida. Prior to faculty appointment at FAU, I served as Clinical Director of Child/Adolescent Inpatient, Partial Hospitalization and Outpatient Services for a Behavioral Healthcare Center as well as a program administrator for a Foster Care agency. This clinical experience provided a basis for my teaching, research and service.
My research elaborates on the fruitful application of the stress-appraisal coping theory as applied in the field of social work. The purpose of my research is to modify the current model from focusing on coping deficits and negative outcomes to a focus on subjective positive personal outcomes. In this line, I am developing ongoing insights in an elaborated theoretical model in which the view of the stressor as a psycho-trauma, and the need of a renewed comprehensive meaning-giving life scheme will be integrated.
My research and scholarly interests include stress and coping, grief and loss, with a major focus on all facets of criminal victimization. My focus is on assessment, treatment and evidence based practice.