Date of Graduation
Fall 2025
Degree
Master of Science in Criminology & Criminal Justice
Department
School of Criminology & Criminal Justice
Committee Chair
Aida Hass-Wisecup
Abstract
This study utilizes anonymous survey data collected from 26 mental health professionals in various regions of Canada to understand which psychological disturbances are the most prevalent among victims of violent crime as well as which psychological interventions are most beneficial for treating violent crime victims. The data revealed that Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), anger, guilt, self-blame, and shame are each highly prevalent. Findings also revealed that certain therapeutic methods including Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), Supportive Counselling (SC), Progressive Relaxation (PR), Cognitive Reprocessing Therapy (CPT) and Cognitive Restructuring (CR) are associated with advantageous outcomes for victims. Additionally, the findings also establish the importance of several components in promoting therapeutic success, including the integration of multiple therapies, an individualized, trauma-informed approach, victim readiness and willingness to engage in treatment, strong family and social support, clinician cultural competency, and continuous follow-up care. The final chapter of this thesis summarizes the core findings of the study and provides a discussion of the limitations of this study as well as suggestions for further research.
Keywords
violent crime, victims, victimization, rape, robbery, aggravated assault, psychological trauma, psychological intervention, therapy
Subject Categories
Clinical Psychology | Cognitive Psychology | Counseling | Counseling Psychology | Counselor Education | Criminology and Criminal Justice | Law and Psychology | Legislation | Quantitative Psychology | Social Justice | Social Statistics | Social Work | Somatic Psychology
Copyright
© Jayden E. Oleksyn-Lamb
Recommended Citation
Oleksyn-Lamb, Jayden E., "The Long-Term Psychological Effects of Violent Crime on Victims: A Review of Evidence and Supportive Interventions" (2025). Graduate Theses/Dissertations. 4142.
https://bearworks.missouristate.edu/theses/4142
Open Access
Included in
Clinical Psychology Commons, Cognitive Psychology Commons, Counseling Psychology Commons, Counselor Education Commons, Criminology and Criminal Justice Commons, Law and Psychology Commons, Legislation Commons, Quantitative Psychology Commons, Social Justice Commons, Social Statistics Commons, Social Work Commons, Somatic Psychology Commons
