The Impact of Crime on
Victims
many victims do not report crimes
to police out of fear
Consequences of Crime
financial loss, property damage, physical
injury and death
psychological and emotional wounds
Psychological and
Emotional Effects of Certain
Crimes
victims of rape, sexual assault and child
sexual abuse, burglary and robbery
depression, shame and fear are the most
commonly identified long-term effects
Suffer significant and long-lasting
behavioral consequences
In the Aftermath of
the Crime
victims usually engage in various preventative or
avoidance measures
such a buying a gun
self-defense courses
new locks on doors
Installing alarms
changing their phone number or job
moving
night
time activities
reducing their social contacts
Physical Impact of
Victimisation
After the crime
victims may suffer a range of physical effects
including insomnia, loss of appetite, lethargy
and body fatigue, headaches, muscle tension,
nausea and vomiting
a “fight or flight” response
Injuries Experienced in an Assault
abrasions and bruises knives
broken nose firearms
Broken cheekbone arson
broken jawbone clubbing
loss of teeth
black eyes
Psychological Impact
Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
victims of serious crime suffer emotional
turmoil
unable to resume a functional life
younger victims experience fewer adverse
effects
women are generally more traumatised
than men