Victimization

An individual who has experienced a traumatic accident or injury has many challenges in his or her path to recovery. One major concern outside of medical and psychological needs is victimization. Victimization is action toward an individual with intent to harm. Victimization can include physical violence, sexual violence, emotional abuse or neglect. Individuals with disabilities are at greater risk for being victimized because of the real or perceived inability to fight, flee or call for help. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention provides us with important information to help define victimization[1].

Physical violence is the intentional harm of an individual by using physical force. This physical force can include hitting, slapping, pushing, shaking, choking or restraining. Physical violence may or may not leave visible marks.

Sexual violence is forcing an individual to participate in sexual acts against his or her will, whether or not the act is completed; an attempted or completed sex act involving a person who is unable to understand the nature or condition of the act, to decline participation, or to communicate unwillingness to engaged in the sexual act and abusive sexual contact.

Emotional abuse occurs when a person is threatened, terrorized or severely rejected, ignored or verbally attacked. An example of emotional abuse is episodes of yelling, threats or acts meant to humiliate or hurt feelings.

Neglect is when the basic needs of an individual are not being met. This includes preventing a person with disabilities from using a wheelchair, cane, respirator or other assistive devices. Failures to address basic needs for food, clothing, shelter or hygiene are other forms of neglect.

In addition to the physical, sexual, emotional abuse and neglect, there is victimization of personal information and finances. Medical scams exist that promise treatment that is proven to be ineffective. Online programs may entice an individual to share personal information that opens the door for identity theft, bullying, harassment and fraud. Programs, such as support groups, college clubs and vocational or work programs are sometimes set up without safeguards and protocols necessary to protect individuals with disabilities. Lastly, some treatment programs operate with putting the needs of the program ahead of the needs of the individual either for financial gain or other benefits and disregard safety concerns[2].

Victimization most often occurs by someone the individual knows such as a caregiver, significant other or healthcare provider. Many occurrences of victimization happen at home, hospital or other care facility. Individuals with a traumatic brain injury (TBI) are at risk for becoming a victim because of certain symptoms related to his or her injury. Such individuals with may have difficulty understanding risky situations or have trouble avoiding risky people. Individuals could have trouble with controlling anger and this can often lead to angering others. Alcohol consumption by an individual with a TBI can lead to situations where he or she may be in danger[3].

It is important to be informed about victimization and prevention. Family members and friends can help by being supportive and encouraging discussions regarding safety and care. The more victimization is identified and reported, the quicker services can be used to help an individual who has already had so much to overcome.

NeuLife, in Mount Dora, Florida, is a fully accessible residential post-acute program providing superior care and specialized rehabilitation to individuals diagnosed with traumatic brain injury (TBI), spinal cord injury (SCI), traumatic amputations and other catastrophic injuries. NeuLife has excellent neurobehavioral and related services to help an individual cope with the feelings associated with living through a traumatic accident.

2725 Robie Avenue
Mount Dora, Florida 32757

,[1] “Victimization of Persons with Traumatic Brain Injury or Other Disability: A Fact Sheet for Professionals,” http://www.cdc.gov/traumaticbraininjury/pdf/VictimizationTBI_Fact%20Sheet4Pros-a.pdf