Examining the Experiences of Homicide Co-Victims to Inform a Survivor’s Guide to Healing

Author

Grae PollardFollow

College

Buchtel College of Arts and Sciences (BCAS)

Date of Last Revision

2023-05-03 18:12:01

Major

Social Work

Honors Course

7750 493-001

Number of Credits

3

Degree Name

Bachelor of Fine Arts

Date of Expected Graduation

Spring 2020

Abstract

The traumatic and unexpected death of a loved one, such as suicides, homicides, and traffic fatalities, is one of the most difficult experiences a person may go through. In Summit County, Ohio, bereaved families are served by Victim Assistance Program (VAP), who help promote the healing process through education, advocacy, and crisis intervention. VAP identified a need for a workbook to assist families with navigating the days and weeks that follow the death of their loved one. In order to create a brochure considerate of the possible needs of families grieving the tragedy, various aspects of their experience were researched. This was achieved by conducting a literature review of over 35 academic articles, examining reports and resources from leading professional agencies, and gathering practice knowledge from local experts. The report focuses its investigation on the impact trauma has on a surviving loved one’s physical health, mental health and evidence based strategies to reduce these impacts; and experiences with the criminal justice system, formal and informal supports, and the media. Supplemented with this report is the finished brochure, which is based on this paper’s research.

Research Sponsor

Michele Thornton

First Reader

Rebecca Cool

Second Reader

Alexandra Potter

Honors Faculty Advisor

Michele Thornton

Recommended Citation

Pollard, Grae, "Examining the Experiences of Homicide Co-Victims to Inform a Survivor’s Guide to Healing" (2020). Williams Honors College, Honors Research Projects. 1091.
https://ideaexchange.uakron.edu/honors_research_projects/1091