Preventable Tragedies: Victimization
People with severe or serious mental illness (SMI) are more likely to be victims of violence and crime than the general population. This pattern is referred to as victimization. Victimization frequently involves theft of clothing or money but also includes violence such as assault, emotional abuse, and murder. Women with serious mental illness experience heightened risk of victimization and sexual violence.
Who is most at risk for victimization?
Many factors beyond an SMI diagnosis can further increase an individual’s likelihood for victimization. These factors include:
- Lack of treatment
- Severe symptoms
- Female gender
- Co-occurring substance abuse
- Homelessness
- Engagement with criminal activity
People with serious mental illness may be up to 5-17 times more likely to experience sexual violence than the general population.
Explore recent research and resources about victimization
Our Research Weekly blog delivers updates on cutting-edge research and information about SMI, straight to your inbox.
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Health Disparities