Escalating crimes rates in the late 1980's and early 1990's created a new population in the United States: families and friends who lost loved ones to violence. To learn more about this ever-expanding population, in June 1996, the Harvard School of Public Health convened the National Forum for Survivors of Violence, bringing together 140 parents and family members who had loved ones killed or injured as a result of violence. At the Forum, participants recognized the need to create a national initiative of survivors focusing on increasing violence prevention education and effecting public policy. Using Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) as a model, Survivors for Violence Prevention (SVP) was created. To date, SVP has: 1) provided violence prevention information and resources to members; 2) continued regular communication; 3) provided training and technical assistance for members; 4) testified twice before Congress on public policy and; 5) initiated the formation of an annual conference to address the needs of sibling survivors of violence. Thus far, two Sibling Survivor Conferences have occurred, and a third is scheduled for July 2000. The Conferences and 20 family interviews have revealed a variety of systemic challenges for health and mental health professionals to meet the needs of this population. The way in which the family interacts with each other and outside systems, including emergency room personnel, the police department, and the school or workplace, dramatically influences the grieving process. Strategies for professionals working with survivors of violence will be presented and policy implications will be discussed.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the sesion, participants will be able to: 1. Recognize the impact of violent loss of life on individuals, families, and communities. 2. Identify "points of entry" for public health, medical,educational, and community members to develop a comprehensive and sensitive strategy for families suffering the loss of a loved one. 3. Articulate at least three of the needs of survivors of violence and understand the implications of these needs on public policy. 4. Cite examples of the ways in which individuals and communities can organize to create public policy changes that support safer communities and protect the rights of victims and their families
Keywords: Public Health Policy, Violence Prevention
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.