Satchell, Jessica; (2024) Older Victims of Community Crime: Psychological Impact and Coping. Doctoral thesis (Ph.D), UCL (University College London).

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Abstract

Background With population ageing and socio-political changes, crime victimisation is increasing in older adults, but understanding of the psychological impact of community crime in this group remains limited. Study One I systematically reviewed and quality-appraised the existing global literature on psychological impact and interventions in older victims. Searching 23,402 records yielded just 21 studies. Studies were disparate, but consistently reported adverse sequelae including anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress, humiliation, self-blame, and behavioural changes. Only feasibility interventions have been published, suggesting further research on this population is needed. Study Two I conducted semi-structured interviews, using life-course narrative, to explore how early-life experiences shaped impact and coping in 27 older victims. I inductively analysed these interviews using thematic analysis and developed two key themes: ‘childhood sense of safety’, and ‘beliefs and values’. These shaped how older victims perceive their crime, which influenced coping. I considered how this applied to the wider literature in a conceptual framework to guide therapeutic practice. Study Three Using mixed-methods, I investigated safety-seeking behaviours in older victims and whether they may be associated with continued distress. I designed a novel patient-reported measure, pre-tested in N = 31 older victims. I then collected data on safety-seeking behaviours and psychological distress in N = 100 older victims. I analysed data using inductive thematic analysis, logistic regression, and unique variable analysis. Older victims reported wide-ranging behaviours: some highly restrictive, others may help maintain independence. An increase in avoidance was most strongly associated with continued distress. Preliminary evaluation found my measure was acceptable, comprehensive, detected individual behaviours and common themes, and appears promising for research and clinical practice. Conclusions The psychological impact of community-crime in older victims varies, but the consequences for health, independence, and quality-of-life can be severe. Clarifying individual coping and targeting interventions to those in distress is crucial for improving support.

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