A framework for polyvictimization in later life

ABSTRACT

This article provides a context and overview for what is known about polyvictimization in later life. Drawing from previous literature, the article includes a definition of the phenomenon, as well as theoretical constructs by which it may be understood. We place other forms of polyvictimization within the context of elder abuse, recognize frameworks for conceptualizing polyvictimization in later life, and distinguish between polyvictimization at younger ages and polyvictimization in later life. The paper concludes with implications of the framework for research, practice, and policy.     

Older adults affected by polyvictimization: A review of early research

ABSTRACT

In contrast to work within the child-abuse field, polyvictimization of older adults did not become a focus of professional attention until this decade. Despite this lack of formal identification, a search of the research and practice literature revealed that prior research investigating single forms of or other elder abuse issues contained evidence of what was variously termed “multiple,” “multi-faceted,” “co-occurring,” or “hybrid” elder abuse. A wide range of victims (1.4%–89.7%) identified in existing elder abuse studies was found to have experienced what constitutes “polyvictimization.” This late-life polyvictimization evidence, the contexts in which victims are harmed, and information regarding the impact of multifaceted elder abuse are all presented and discussed in this article. Selected published cases illustrate the clinical dynamics operating in late-life polyvictimization situations.     

Cultural and ethical considerations in late-life polyvictimization

ABSTRACT

This article examines the cultural and ethical considerations for professionals working with older adults who experience polyvictimization. Drawing from the Department of Justice training program, Polyvictimization in Later Life (OVC/TTAC, 2017), topics include cultural competencies, ethical standards, personal and professional ethics, and ethical considerations when working in teams. Also described are specific suggestions and recommendations to ensure sensitive and ethical responses when working with cases involving polyvictimization.     

Polyvictimization in later life: Trauma-informed best practices

ABSTRACT

This article provides a summary of salient trauma findings and conveys the dearth of research pertaining specifically to the trauma of elder abuse. This material, in conjunction with information contained in other articles composing this special issue, lays the foundation for advancing a trauma-informed approach to assisting older adults who have experienced polyvictimization. Informed by the findings presented and their extensive clinical experience with victims of violence, the authors suggest steps for providing a trauma-informed and victim-centered response to older adults who have suffered polyvictimization. These steps are then illustrated with an in-depth late-life polyvictimization case analysis.     

The Effects of Polyvictimization and Quality of Caregiver Attachment on Disclosure of Illegal Sexual Behavior

ABSTRACT

The current study examined the relationship among self-disclosure of illegal sexual behaviors and two conceptually relevant constructs in psychotherapy: childhood polyvictimization (i.e., cumulative types of victimization experienced during childhood) and caregiver attachment. Participants consisted of 63 adolescent males participating in mandated treatment for illegal sexual behavior. Childhood polyvictimization and caregiver attachment were expected to predict self-disclosure of illegal sexual behaviors. Quality of caregiver attachment was also expected to mediate the relationship between polyvictimization and disclosure. Consistent with our main hypothesis, results indicate that quality of caregiver attachment mediated the relationship between childhood polyvictimization and self-disclosure of illegal sexual behaviors in psychotherapy. The current findings highlight the impact of polyvictimization on important therapeutic processes as well as the importance of assessing for multiple types of victimization in adolescents who engage in illegal sexual behavior. Further clinical implications regarding the use of trauma-informed approaches during sex offender treatment are discussed.     

Five-year all-cause mortality rates across five categories of substantiated elder abuse occurring in the community

ABSTRACT

Elder abuse increases the likelihood of early mortality, but little is known regarding which types of abuse may be resulting in the greatest mortality risk. This study included N = 1,670 cases of substantiated elder abuse and estimated the 5-year all-cause mortality for five types of elder abuse (caregiver neglect, physical abuse, emotional abuse, financial exploitation, and polyvictimization). Statistically significant differences in 5-year mortality risks were found between abuse types and across gender. Caregiver neglect and financial exploitation had the lowest survival rates, underscoring the value of considering the long-term consequences associated with different forms of abuse. Likewise, mortality differences between genders and abuse types indicate the need to consider this interaction in elder abuse case investigations and responses. Further mortality studies are needed in this population to better understand these patterns and implications for public health and clinical management of community-dwelling elder abuse victims.     

Parallel Process of Posttraumatic Stress and Externalizing Problems Among Youth at High Risk for Victimization

Research shows comorbidity between posttraumatic stress symptoms (PTSS) and externalizing problems among polyvictimized youth. However, the impact of polyvictimization on the longitudinal co-development of PTSS and distinct forms of externalizing problems remains unclear. Growth trajectory modeling was used to address this gap. At ages 8, 12, and 16, polyvictimization was measured using youth, caregiver, and official records; whereas youth self-reported PTSS and caregivers reported aggression and delinquency. Results demonstrate that changes in PTSS and each externalizing domain were independent. Further, polyvictimization and PTSS/aggression were only associated at concurrent time points. In contrast, polyvictimization and delinquency were generally associated at concurrent and distal time points, suggesting that polyvictimization may have a more enduring impact on youths' delinquent behaviors than other symptoms.     

Curriculum Building in International Social Work: Toward Preparing Professionals for the Global Age

Abstract

How can social workers be better prepared to practice and make other professional contributions in an increasingly interdependent world? This article reports the results of a study of expert opinion on the rationale for and optimal approaches to internationalizing social work education. Learning objectives and content areas for the general graduate curriculum and for specializations are discussed. Curriculum recommendations are presented to address three identified arenas for professional contribution: Enhanced domestic practice; professional exchange and action; and international practice and research.     

Sexual Orientation,Gender, and Gender Identity Microaggressions: Toward an Intersectional Framework for Social Work Research

ABSTRACT

Professional ethics compel social workers to address all forms of discrimination and oppression. Microaggressions can contribute to health disparities for marginalized groups; yet, little is known about the frequency, mechanisms, and impact of microaggressions on sexual minorities, cisgender women, and gender minorities—particularly for those with intersecting marginalized identities. This article extends microaggression literature by exploring interrelated constructs of sexual orientation, gender, and gender identity microaggressions, and offering recommendations for future research using an intersectional lens to foster an integrated and complex understanding of microaggressions. Implications of an intersectional microaggression framework for social work education and practice are discussed.     

Using Student Course Evaluations: Findings,Issues, and Recommendations

Abstract

Although university administrators widely use student course evaluations (SCEs) in evaluating faculty performance, faculty members are skeptical about what SCEs actually measure. Faculty lack information about SCE reliability and validity and whether administrators use them fairly in making personnel decisions. This article reports research findings on factors that threaten the reliability and validity of SCEs. It provides recommendations for minimizing these threats. It reports findings of a recent survey of social work deans on their opinions about and use of SCEs. The article also presents recommendations to enhance the use of SCEs.     

Implications of the Memory Controversy for Clinical Practice: An Overview of Treatment Recommendations and Guidelines

SUMMARY

The controversy surrounding delayed and recovered memories of incest/child sexual abuse has had a profound impact on clinical practice. This article first provides an overview of the positions taken by both sides in the dispute, the “false memory proponents and the traumatic stress proponents”. It then presents the major findings of several of the professional task forces charged with reviewing the controversy and arriving at recommendations for research, clinical practice, and forensic practice regarding delayed recall of memories for sexual abuse. The current status of scientific and clinical knowledge is discussed, especially in terms of its implications for therapists and clinical practice. Nineteen recommendations and practice guidelines are presented for therapists working with individuals who report or suspect childhood sexual abuse on the basis of continuous and/or recovered memory.     

2015 Rosalie Wolf Memorial Award Lecture: Past,present, and future of elder abuse

ABSTRACT

This article aims to advance the global issue of elder abuse through exploring how the current body of elder abuse literature can collectively pave the way for present and future directions for research, practice, and policy.     

Using feminist ‘reflexive practice’ to explore stress and well-being of local researchers in South Sudan

ABSTRACT

This article discusses using feminist methods of reflexive practice to support and learn about the well-being of researchers working on gender-based violence research in South Sudan. In particular, we focus on the experiences of South Sudanese researchers undertaking this research in their own country. We share key findings and offer personal reflections on and suggestions for improving fieldwork. As feminists ourselves we placed a high value on sharing personal reflections on emotional challenges that the research team faced. However, our South Sudanese colleagues did not find these approaches very useful, preferring to discuss technical challenges, and placed emphasis on the importance of professionalism. This experience suggests the need for more culturally diverse feminist research tools, and for better recognition of the crucial role played by national researchers in international research projects. We end with recommendations.     

Evaluation of Distance Education Programs in Social Work

SUMMARY

Social work courses and programs delivered with distance technologies continue to increase in number. This article reports on current social work education research on distance courses and programs, and makes recommendations for future distance education research. Distance education research in other fields is described to give context for social work efforts.     

The Use of Simulations,Writing Assignments,and Assessment Measures in Family Social Work Education

ABSTRACT

The focus of this article is on the applied aspects of practice and research in family social work education. Particular attention is given to the integration of writing assignments and assessment instruments with family simulations. A review of a family social work course is presented. The advantages and limitations of using multiple teaching methods are discussed with respect to preparing students for field placements and professional practice     

Social Media and Social Work: The Challenges of a New Ethical Space

ABSTRACT

Social media and other online technologies have transformed communication between social workers and service users, with many practitioners engaging and working with clients through social networking sites. While there are numerous ethical issues associated with online practice related to con?dentiality, dual relationships, and boundary crossing, there is lack of clarity about how to deal with such issues. This article uses a case example to develop a nuanced understanding of ethical issues and ethical behaviour in online spaces. We argue that social workers need to link their knowledge of the complex interplay between discourses that underpin daily practice like those related to power, permanency, authorship, audience, embodiment, and professionalism to social media created spaces. In doing this, social workers must retain their commitment to ethical values and critical reflective practice. We conclude with recommendations for education, research, and practice.