Psychology of Victims

These flashcards cover key concepts related to the psychology of victims, crime trends, and the specific dynamics of domestic violence, including relevant legal and psychological terms.

Crime Victimization Survey

A survey that collects data on crime rates reported by victims, providing insights into the prevalence of various types of crime.

Battered Woman Syndrome (BWS)

A psychological condition exhibited by women who are victims of prolonged domestic violence, often leading to feelings of helplessness and a strong psychological dependency on their abuser.

Cycle of Violence

A pattern of abuse that occurs in domestic violence situations, consisting of phases: tension building, acute battering, and reconciliation.

Hypervigilance

An increased state of awareness and sensitivity to potential threats, commonly seen in abuse victims who become excessively alert to their abuser's behaviors.

Victimology

The field of study that focuses on the aspects of victimization, its consequences, and the recovery of victims.

Imminent Danger

A legal term that refers to the immediate threat of harm or death that justifies self-defense actions.

Syndrome Evidence

Use of specific psychological syndromes in legal defenses, such as Battered Woman Syndrome, to explain a victim's actions.

Cycle of Abuse

The ongoing pattern in abusive relationships that consists of escalating tensions, incidents of abuse, reconciliation, and a calm phase.

Learned Helplessness

A condition in which a victim of abuse becomes conditioned to believe they have no control over their situation, often leading to passivity in the face of abuse.

Statistical Crime Rates

The measured rates of different types of crime incidences, such as violent crimes, often reported in surveys like the NCVS.