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A Comprehensive Conceptual Program Model for Supporting Families Surviving a Homicide Victim

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Abstract

The homicide of a loved one is a devastating event for families. Adult and youth survivors struggle with posttraumatic stress, complicated grief, isolation, and stigma. Existing programs serving survivors of homicide victims offer needed services, but a comprehensive program is lacking. Based on an analysis of existing programs in the United States, a literature review, and the authors’ practice experience, this paper presents a comprehensive, conceptual practice model for supporting survivors of homicide victims. The program model consists of the following components: Counseling/Therapeutic Services; Case Management Services; Advocacy Services; Education/Training; Community of Survivors; and a Website/Hotline. Implications for social work practice and directions for future research are discussed.

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Conflict of interest

The authors declare that they have no conflict of interest.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Social Work, DePaul University, 14 E. Jackson Ave, Chicago, IL, 60604, USA

    Neil J. Vincent

  2. Chicago’s Citizens for Change, 5315 N. Clark St. Suite 310, Chicago, IL, 60640, USA

    Joy McCormack

  3. Chicago Survivors, 5315 N. Clark St. Suite 310, Chicago, IL, 60640, USA

    Susan Johnson

Authors
  1. Neil J. Vincent
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  2. Joy McCormack
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  3. Susan Johnson
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Correspondence to Neil J. Vincent.

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Vincent, N.J., McCormack, J. & Johnson, S. A Comprehensive Conceptual Program Model for Supporting Families Surviving a Homicide Victim. Child Adolesc Soc Work J 32, 57–64 (2015). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10560-014-0362-4

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10560-014-0362-4

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