Victimization of disabilities

Question 1

definition

Answer 1

physical: unable to do some physical things
DEVELOPMENTAL: cerebral palsy, epilepsy, severe learning or intellectual disability, autism spectrum

Question 2

extent and who is victimized

Answer 2

rates of victimization higher for those with disabilities–underestimated
AGES 12-15 AT MOST RISK**
cognitive disability HIGHEST RATE OF VIOLENT VICTIMIZATION

Question 3

Violence against WOMEN with disabilities

Answer 3

-experience MULTIPLE TYPES (violent, property, neglect)
-much higher rates of SEXUAL victimization than general population
HIGH RATES REPEAT victimization
-higher rates of intimate partner violence

Question 4

Violence against YOUTH with disabilities

Answer 4

-may be frustrated caretakers and peers at school
-higher levels: BULLYING victimization
-higher levels SEXUAL VICTIMIZATION

Question 5

patterns of victimization

Answer 5

LESS LIKELY to offer RESISTANCE or try and stop victimization
-MORE LIKELY harmed by someone WELL KNOWN

Question 6

risk factors

Answer 6

-seen as vulnerable
–those who need MORE assistance with things at greater risk
–if they have intellectual or developmental disabilties
—cant RECOGNIZE OR PROCESS risk
-live in POVERTY
-dependency-stress issues

Question 7

responses

Answer 7

-UNLIKELY TO SEE POLICE**
-dont know how it happened, or cant understand it as victimization
-difficulties with communication, offender may be family or caretakers for retaliation
-when COMING FORWARD may take it less seriously
-limited FEDERAL legislation
-some states have taken action

Question 8

prevention

Answer 8

-need training for first responders, court personnel, judges, social service providers
-educational programs for those with disabilities for assertiveness training, stress management, self defense
-resources for caretakers to help them cope