Victimology

The majority of Canadians experience criminal victimization at some point in their lifetime. This course explores the meaning of the concept victim through theoretical perspectives and case studies. Students conduct critical analyses and examine research methods in the field of victimology. Students examine victim classifications, communities as victims, the link between victimization and offending, and violence prevention strategies. Special attention will also be given to the examination of the development of victims rights at the regional, national and international level.

It is essential for professionals in the field of victimology to ensure that victims of crime are not further traumatized by the very interventions designed to assist. Students examine the impact of various types of victimization including cyber-crime, homicide, sexual assault, elder abuse, drunk driving, assault, intimate partner violence, globalization, human trafficking and fraud. Students explore issues of grief, loss, trauma response and the costs associated with victimization. Case studies and role playing, assessment, advocacy and advanced communication skills are developed through discussion.

Being a victim of crime thrusts a person into a number of legal systems. Students critically examine legal systems from a victims' perspective. Particular focus is placed on the criminal and family law systems and how they intersect. Relevant legislation, as well as recommendations from inquests and inquiries are examined. Restorative justice and victims' rights are explored.

Students learn theory and practical skills essential to assist women who are victims of violence. Students examine historical and social perspectives of violence against women; issues of power and authority within a feminist theoretical framework; different forms of violence against women, such as sexual violence and femicide; and women's varied experiences of violence (as impacted by race, class, sexual orientation, ability and age). Through a combination of case studies, literature and media analysis, group activities and discussion, practical demonstrations, role plays, and community research, students learn how to support women who are victims of violence, to assess women for risk of violence, to recommend personal safety plans, and to best advocate for appropriate and needed services.

Indigenous people are overrepresented both as victims and offenders. Students explore the impact of the residential schools, effects of colonialism on traditional values and culture, as well as structural victimization. Students critically examine and assess Canadas principal approaches to addressing victimization and offending by and against Indigenous peoples. Through discussion and experiential learning from an Indigenous perspective, students gain insight and understanding of Indigenous teachings, Indigenous worldview, culturally relevant healing, crime prevention and restorative justice.

Crime is frequently reported and sensationalized in the media. In this course, students are sensitized to the impact of the media on victims of crime. Through a review of current events, students evaluate the role of the media in the lives of victims, paying particular attention to privacy issues. Students develop media research, communication and public relations skills to effectively advocate for victims' issues in the media.

Men who experience victimization often encounter barriers to seeking help. Students explore masculinities theory, stigma, help-seeking behaviours, and male-centred treatment approaches. Special attention is paid to men's experiences of sexual violence, partner violence, institutional violence, and war-related trauma. Through case studies, in-class activities, and research, students will consider how society can better prevent and respond to male victimization.

Childhood victimization can have long-term negative impacts and shape the way a person views the world and those surrounding them. Students examine short and long-term effects of childhood victimization and gender related issues. Common myths are explored regarding children's symptoms and the effects of childhood victimization. Students gain an understanding of criminal and child welfare investigations, as well as relevant legislation and professional requiremens related to reporting and documentation. Child development (ages, stages, capacities) and parental/guardian considerations are explored. Through a combination of lectures, case studies and discussions, students develop the interpersonal skills necessary to listen to and to interview children and their families. Emphasis is place on appropriate victim support and prevention recurrence.

Students develop the knowledge and skills required to provide culturally competent services to victims. Students explore the dynamics of difference from a personal and professional perspective. Emphasis is given to marginalized and minoritized populations. Through critical analysis and examination of core concepts (identity, equity, anti-oppression, reflective practice and cultural competency), students learn how to work with all populations requiring victim services while applying an anti-oppression framework.

Working with victims of crime is a demanding profession. Students learn the principles of debriefing, self-care and stress management. Reflective activities and in-class discussions enable students to understand their personal strengths and limitations and to develop and critique personal strategies for managing occupational stress. Special attention is given to working within professional guidelines and to the creation of individual plans for professional development. Through examination of Victim Service Standards students develop knowledge of ethical codes, confidentiality and ongoing education that guide professional practice in victim services.

Victim assistance workers must be able to plan and implement skills and techniques aimed at the prevention of crime and healing of victims. Students are introduced to the theoretical basis and practice of victim service interventions. Through lectures, class discussions and role play, students learn to conduct threat assessments, triage, facilitation, mediation, negotiation, and non-violent crisis intervention. Special emphasis is placed on recognizing and addressing the acute needs of victims in crisis, and deliverying interventions from a client-centred perspective.

Victim service professionals are required to collaborate with service agencies to plan, deliver and evaluate victim service programs and initiatives. Students research and identify the vast array of community, provincial and national services, including financial remedies, counselling, mental health, medical and addiction services. Students learn to facilitate interagency communication and multidisciplinary case management. Through case studies, students identify and assess the needs of victims, identify the most appropriate referrals, and present strategies and approaches that can be used to advocate for victims within and between various systems.

This Capstone experience provides students with the opportunity to integrate theory with practice and to contribute to victim service initiatives within a community setting. Those already working in an approved victim services agency may opt, in consultation with their supervisor, to conduct a research project within their agency. Students reflect on their learning through discussions, self-evaluations and reflection journals.

Please Note: Registration in this capstone is only open to students who have successfully completed the requisite courses listed below. If you have successfully completed your requisites and are ready to start your capstone, please contact the Online Education office at onlineplacement@lambtoncollege.ca to begin the registration process.

Prerequisite(s):

• VIC-1003 Victimology: Theoretical Perspectives
• VIC-1033 Violence Against Women
• VIC-1062 Men as Victims Reducing Victimization
• VIC-1013 Victims Of Crime
• VIC-1042 Indigenous Peoples: Understanding and Reducing Victimization
• VIC-1023 Victimization and the Law
• VIC-1052 Victims and the Media