Common Ground: The Development of a Support Group for Survivors of Homicide Loss in a Rural Community |
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Authors: | Theresa L Blakley Nita Mehr |
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Institution: | 1. Union University, Social Work Department , 1050 Union University Drive, Jackson, TN, 38305tblakley@uu.edu;3. Director of Social Work , Freed-Hardeman University , 158 East Main Street, Box 17, Henderson, TN, 38340 |
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Abstract: | ABSTRACT Losing a loved one from human-perpetrated violence can lead to a debilitating process of stigma-generated isolation and trauma. Layers of social services are needed to support surviving family members, all secondary victims of homicide. Although urban populations have enriched access to victims-of-crime services, rural-bound populations often do not. This article describes homicide-specific trauma and the development of a community support group for rural-bound persons suffering homicide loss. The support group process offers potential for real help in areas where few trauma-informed options exist. The authors chronicle their journey of group-work practice with underserved persons coping with homicide loss. |
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Keywords: | Homicide-specific trauma rural communities victims of crime violence support groups |
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