Value, Challenges, and Solutions in Incorporating Victim Impact Awareness in Offender Rehabilitation: The Results of Qualitative Interviews with Stakeholders

Abstract

Research has failed to provide strong evidence linking victim impact awareness (VIA) with reduced offending. However, this research has serious methodological limitations. Further, issues in the implementation of correctional interventions targeting VIA, which may impact their outcomes, have not been explored in the literature. The current study addresses this second issue. In-depth semistructured interviews with key stakeholders in VIA activities (e.g., program facilitators, victims’ advocates) elucidated implementation issues, such as challenges surrounding offender readiness specific to VIA activities. Informants’ recommendations to address these challenges provide valuable insight to practitioners in this popular and growing area of correctional intervention.

Keywords:

• victim impact
• victim empathy
• program implementation
• recidivism