Understanding Victimization

Facts about Abuse

• Approximately 1 in 10 Americans over 60 years of age have been victimized in some way. Only 1 in 14 cases are reported.¹
• Almost 60% of elder abuse perpetrators are family members.¹
• Social isolation and mental impairment are some factors that make elder adults vulnerable to mistreatment.¹
• Elder Financial Abuse costs victims approximately $36.5 billion per year.¹
• Elder Mistreatment most commonly occurs in the home or facility where the elder adult is living.²
• Most victims are dependent on their abuser for basic needs.²

Types of Vulnerable Adult/Elder Abuse:

• Financial exploitation includes the misappropriation of finances or the theft of money, property, or possessions, which includes “conning” and extortion.
• Neglect is a pattern of conduct in which a person fails to provide at least minimal care for another person in their care. Neglect differs from abuse in that it is a failure to take action rather than taking action against an older person.
• Physical abuse refers to the intentional infliction of any bodily harm or injury, or physical conditions that endanger the individual’s health or welfare.
• Psychological abuse is a pattern of ridiculing or demeaning, making derogatory remarks, verbally harassing or threatening.

It can be very difficult to recognize, accept and act regarding abuse when it is happening to you or a loved one. The suspected abuse may be taking place in a licensed care facility or by a family member or friend. You or your loved one may not be able to reach out to anyone with the details of what is taking place, which may be because of physical or mental impairments, embarrassment, or shame. Regardless, the abuser is counting on your or your loved one’s inability to protect themselves, reluctance to disclose the abuse, or fear of the abuser’s retaliation, to keep the abuse a secret.

Signs of Abuse

Although not a comprehensive list, these are some common signs that may be indicative of abuse.

• Bruises, welts, bed sores, fractured/broken bones, cuts, etc.
• Lack of necessities (food, water, medications, bathroom assistance)
• Signs of physical restraint
• Soiled clothing or bedding
• Sudden changes in financial situations
• Unattended medical needs, poor hygiene/dental hygiene, unusual weight loss
• Withdrawal from normal activities, strained relationships, arguments between the elder and the caregiver, depression, etc.

What You Can Do

If you, or your loved one, are experiencing any type of Elder Abuse, you can start by reporting your suspicions to Arizona Adult Protective Services (AAPS). AAPS investigates situations involving allegations of abuse, neglect or exploitation of incapacitated or vulnerable adults who are unable, by their own resourcefulness, to protect their person, rights, welfare, and/or interests. Describe for them any/all attempts you or your loved one has made to intervene (reporting to the facility’s administrator, etc.) and the outcomes. If necessary, submit your report in writing.

What We Can Do

Your concerns may lead to an investigation by the Attorney General’s Office. An OVS advocate will be assigned to your case to guide you through the investigative process, as well as keep you apprised of the case status.

If your concerns result in a criminal prosecution after investigation, you may find that the prosecution process is a new and intimidating environment. To assist you and your loved one, OVS advocates will keep you updated, in writing or by phone, about the status of the case. You or your loved one will be informed of scheduled court proceedings, hearing outcomes, and your rights in the judicial process.

Some victims find it helpful to be actively involved as their cases are being investigated or prosecuted. Case updates and notifications from the Office of Victim Services, as well as the advocates themselves, can enable you and your loved one to participate to the extent you desire.

Victim Compensation

If you decide to seek professional help to cope with emotional distress resulting from the crime, or you need help with other eligible expenses resulting from the victimization (medical care, emergency relocation, etc.), the OVS advocate may refer you to the Victim Compensation Program and help you with applying for compensation monies. For more information about Victim Compensation, you may contact your advocate or visit https://www.azcjc.gov/Programs/Victim-Services/Compensation-Program. 

Secondary Trauma

Though you may not be the direct victim of abuse, you may find yourself deeply affected by what has happened to your loved one. You may find yourself avoiding the problem. Once you are certain some type of mistreatment is taking place, you may feel different emotions, like anger, depression, etc. Keep in mind that the victim, your loved one, is likely feeling the same things, perhaps even more intensely. These feelings should resolve in time for both of you; however, if you or the victim find yourselves unable to move beyond the intense emotions you feel, it would be a good idea to take advantage of some of the resources listed below. 

Resources to Help You

Adult Protective Services
1-877-SOS-ADULT (1-877-767-2385)
1-877-815-8390
https://hssazapsprod.wellsky.com/assessments/?WebIntake=1F74FCDA-C6AB-4192-9CEE-F8D20DE98850 

Area Agency on Aging (Maricopa County)
1366 E. Thomas Rd., Suite 108
Phoenix, AZ 85014
602-264-2255

Area Agency on Aging (Pima County)
8467 East Broadway
Tucson, AZ 85710
520-790-7262

Taskforce Against Senior Abuse (TASA)
Elder Helpline
602-542-2124 (Phoenix)
602-542-7918 (Spanish)
1-800-352-8432 (Toll Free)
mailto:[email protected]

AARP Fraud Watch Network
https://www.aarp.org/money/scams-fraud/about-fraud-watch-network/ 877-908-3360
https://www.aarp.org/money/scams-fraud/voa-rest-program/ Peer Support 

U.S. Senate Special Committee on Aging|
Anti-Fraud Hotline
1-855-303-9470
https://www.aging.senate.gov/fraud-hotline 

Financial crime victims are of all ages, genders, races, and classes. Victims of financial crimes often feel the same pain and emotions that victims of violent crimes do; however, this is not socially accepted as easily because there is no physical injury. Some of the emotions faced by victims of financial crimes:

• Denial, Rationalization
• Blaming others
• Self-blame, shame, guilt
• Anger, retaliation
• Stress
• Depression, Isolation

Losing a loved one through homicide is one of the most traumatic experiences anyone could face. The trauma may be exacerbated by the intricacies of the criminal justice system. There is no single way to deal with the death of a loved one; however, keep in mind that mourning your loved one is an important part of healing. The stages of grief, though not linear, are common feelings that many victims experience.

• Shock: Commonly described as feeling numb, tired, or weak. This should pass and will be replaced by other emotions.
• Denial & Isolation: Initially, many victims refuse to face the reality of the situation. This is temporary reaction that buffers the immediate reaction to the loss. Many victims also block out people and things around them, in order to avoid the situation.
• Anger & Retaliation: While this anger may not always be aimed at the perpetrator, many victims feel the desire to strike back at the perpetrator. Anger is a normal part of grieving, and you may feel anger for many different reasons. It is important to not keep this anger inside—talk to someone, either a friend or loved one or a professional.
• Guilt & Bargaining: Often, many victims think that, if they had only done something differently, their loved one would still be alive. Many victims blame themselves, when the blame does not lie with them.
• Depression: Many victims feel sadness and regret as they deal with having to say goodbye to a loved one. It is important to talk to family and friends to relieve some of this sadness.
• Acceptance: Not every victim reaches this stage. This is not necessarily happiness or normalcy, rather a period of calm. This is when many victims make their peace with the loss of a loved one.

Coping Strategies

Understand that grieving is a process, and it varies in length of time depending on the victim. Be patient with yourself. There is no single solution for coping with a loss; however, you may find the following tips helpful:

• Remember that self-care is very important. This means finding ways to balance your physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. 
  • Make efforts to eat regularly, get enough sleep, and exercise.
  • Lean on your support systems. Maintain contact with family and friends. Participate in your religious, community or support groups. 
  • Take time to reflect. This can be done through meditation, prayer, and journaling. 
  • Seek professional assistance if you do not feel yourself grieving or improving.

What We Can Do

If your case is being investigated or prosecuted by the Arizona Attorney General’s Office, the Office of Victim Services (OVS) may assist you in several ways to cope with the emotional ramifications of your victimization. An assigned advocate will keep you updated, by phone or in writing, of the case status, walk you through the complexities of the criminal justice system, as well as make referrals to outside resources if necessary.

Some victims find it helpful to be actively involved as the case is being investigated or prosecuted. Case updates and notifications from the Office of Victim Services, as well as the advocates themselves, can enable you to participate to the extent you require.

Resources to Help You

Child abuse is an unfortunate common occurrence in the United States. It is important that we, as adults, act as advocates for children, as they are unable to advocate for themselves. Forms of child abuse can include physical and sexual violence. There are signs of both that can indicate an occurrence of abuse.

Signs of Physical Abuse

• Absences from school
• Depression, anxiety, loss of self-confidence
• Changes in behavior
• Lack of supervision
• Unexplained injuries
• Untreated medical conditions
• Withdrawal

Signs of Sexual Abuse

• Age-inappropriate sexual behavior or knowledge
• Difficulty with urination
• Pain in genital area
• Sexually transmitted diseases or pregnancy
• Sleeping disorders
• Stomach aches
• Unexplained bruises

What You Can Do

• Keep your initial reaction neutral. The reactions of people close to the child are important factors in determining how the child will cope with their victimization. Provide reassurance, comfort, and consideration. Be open to your child’s questions and feelings. Be aware that affection could be triggering to the child and seek permission from the child first.
• Hide your negative feelings. Watch your comments both to your child and any that your child may overhear. Demands for revenge or threats about the offender may confuse or frighten your child. Be careful not to make your child feel like they are “ruined” because of their abuse.
• Don’t add to your child’s guilt. This is not the time for a lecture. Avoid accusatory statements. Keep in mind that your child did not ask to be victimized. Do not punish you child or make them feel responsible for the abuse. Also, do not blame yourself. The offender is the only person responsible.
• Be careful not to create fear. Let your child know in simple terms that what the offender did was wrong. If your child exhibits inappropriate behaviors (sexual, rage, etc.), help them understand what is and is not appropriate.
• Respect your child’s privacy. Whom you and your child tell about what happened is strictly up to you and your child. Many families find that it is helpful for immediate family to be told so they can provide needed support and understanding. It is also important to report the incident to the law enforcement agency in your area.
• Consider seeking professional help. Therapists who specialize in helping child victims of physical or sexual abuse are available. Use resources later in this document to help find someone to talk to. You may be eligible for Victim Compensation to reimburse you for any counseling; consult your advocate for more information, or visit https://www.azcjc.gov/Programs/Victim-Services/Compensation-Program.

What We Can Do

If your case is being investigated or prosecuted by the Arizona Attorney General’s Office, the Office of Victim Services (OVS) may assist you and your child in several ways. An OVS advocate will be assigned to the case and will help you cope with the emotional ramifications of victimization, navigate the complexities of criminal investigations, as well as the criminal justice system. You will be updated, by phone or in writing, about the status of the case, informed of scheduled court proceedings, hearing outcomes, and your rights in the judicial process.

Your advocate will also be an important ally in helping your child. It is likely that your child will have to be interviewed by investigators and/or prosecutors in order to build a case. The advocate can help in coordinating interviews and meetings with investigators and prosecutors, as well as accompany your family to these interviews or court proceedings. Your advocate is also available to provide additional resources to you and your child.

Resources to Help You

Human trafficking involves force, fraud or coercion to obtain labor or commercial sex act from a person.

• Labor trafficking is the exploitation of an individual for forced labor and work.
• Sex trafficking is the exploitation of a person for the purpose of commercial sex. Anyone can be a victim. If the victim is under the age of 18, a request or demand for sex in exchange for something is considered sex trafficking. A minor cannot consent to commercial sex.

Victims are often trafficked by someone they know, a family member or an intimate partner. That’s why knowing how to identify human trafficking is critical to prevent this heinous crime. 

How Does Victimization Happen

Sex traffickers use grooming tactics, psychological manipulation, deception, physical violence, threats, blackmail, and/or sexual assault to get their victim to feel vulnerable, trapped and powerless. Their goal is to find a vulnerability and exploit it for their own financial gain. Often, traffickers act like they are in love with their victims, but it is really a form of abuse. They may make promises of a happier life, a brighter future and true love.

• Targeting – Traffickers often target victims who have some noticeable vulnerability: emotional neediness, low self-confidence, or economic status.
• Gaining Trust – Traffickers may obtain information about the victim to create a connection of trust.
• Filling a Void – Traffickers may use friendship, an intimate relationship, or providing basic needs such as housing or food, so that the victim becomes dependent on the trafficker.
• Isolation – The trafficker will begin taking a major role in the victim’s life and attempt to distance them from their friends and family.
• Abuse – he trafficker may claim that gifts or relationship must be repaid. In most cases, sex is the form of payment. The sex act may then be recorded to be used as blackmail.
• Control – Threats, violence fear or blackmail are tools for the trafficker to maintain control of the victim.

Flags to Watch For

Indicators of human trafficking

• Signs of physical abuse
• Disconnected from friends/loved ones 
• Talk of an older boyfriend/girlfriend 
• New material items they cannot afford 
• Signs of malnutrition 
• Drug addiction
• Unusual tattoos / branding

The Trafficker

• Acts like a doting “boyfriend” or “girlfriend”
• Gives gifts
• Charms and flatters
• Promises a happier life
• Pays for needs
• Abuses and intimidates for control
• Uses violence and force
• Uses threats and blackmail

Where Recruiting Happens

Sex trafficking often occurs in plain sight. It can happen in our schools and parks. It can happen online and at shopping malls. It can happen almost anywhere. Common places sex traffickers may target or exploit their victims include: 

• Online, including social media and gaming platforms 
• Malls 
• Schools 
• Parks 
• Bus depots/stops 

What We Can Do

If your case is being investigated or prosecuted by the Arizona Attorney General’s Office, the Office of Victim Services (OVS) may assist you in several ways to cope with the emotional ramifications of your victimization. An assigned advocate will keep you updated, by phone or in writing, of the case status, walk you through the complexities of the criminal justice system, as well as make referrals to outside resources if necessary.

Some victims find it helpful to be actively involved as the case is being investigated or prosecuted. Case updates and notifications from the Office of Victim Services, as well as the advocates themselves, can enable you to participate to the extent you require.

Resources to Help You

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (24-hour Hotline for those in crisis)
Call or Text – 9-8-8
1-800-273-TALK(8255)

Arizona Human Trafficking Hotline
1-877-4-AZ-TIPS (1-877-429-8477)

National Human Trafficking hotline
1-877-373-7888

Arizona Child Abuse hotline (if the suspected victim is a minor)
1-888-SOS-CHILD (1-888-767-2445)

Sex Trafficking Help
https://www.sextraffickinghelp.com/

Safe Place
https://www.nationalsafeplace.org/

The Dream Center, Where Hope Lives
https://wherehopelives.org/

National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC)
https://www.missingkids.org/home

In the aftermath of a crime, violent or not, victims are impacted physically, financially, socially, and emotionally. Each victim’s reaction to his or her victimization will vary; however, there are some common impacts that crime has on victims. Remember that no part of this experience is “normal”, thus there are no “normal” reactions. Keep in mind that your feelings are valid, and there is no “right” way to cope.

Physical Impacts

The obvious effects of your victimization are the physical injuries you may have suffered. You may experience after-effects of your injuries in the form of other physical symptoms following the crime. These may include:

• Headaches
• Lack of energy
• Disturbed sleep patterns
• Heightened sensory awareness
• Skin rashes
• Exaggerated startle reflex
• Fatigue
• Weight loss or gain, increased or decreased appetite

Financial Impacts

At the time of the crime, your money or other possessions may have been taken or your property damaged. You may have expenses stemming from the crime, such as medical expenses or emergency relocation expenses. There are resources that may be available to you to help recover money or help pay expenses, such as Restitution or the Victim Compensation Program.

Social Impacts

• Others may respond negatively to your victimization, including your physical, financial and emotional problems.
• You may find yourself withdrawing from family and friends and isolating yourself.
• You may also find yourself becoming disinterested in activities that you previously valued.

Mental Impacts

• Difficulty concentrating
• Difficulty showing emotion
• Confusion
• Intrusive thoughts
• Mentally reliving the crime
• Forgetfulness or memory lapses
• Inability to make decisions
• Fantasies about harming the offender

Emotional Impacts

There are some common emotions that many victims experience in the aftermath of a crime, and they may come with a lot of questions. Victims experience these emotions differently and may be short or long-term. See the “Tips for Recovery” section later in this document to help deal with some of these emotions and questions.

• Fear
• Embarrassment
• Despair/self-pity
• Guilt/shame
• Irritability
• Flashbacks
• Mood swings
• Anger