Survivors of Homicide Victims: Factors that Influence their Well-Being

Abstract

Although survivors of homicide victims are recognized as a distinct bereaved population, little attention has been given to concepts of posthomicide wellness and the conditions that advance survivors’ healing. This article examines the well-being of survivors through interviews and focus groups with survivors and victim assistance providers. Data were analyzed using a combination of template analysis and grounded theory, qualitative approaches that serve to broaden existing theory and prior research about homicide bereavement so that survivors’ functioning can be assessed outside of theory built principally on death due to natural causes or through the lens of complicated bereavement. Findings include eight dimensions of well-being: (a) movement/intentionality, (b) stagnation, (c) reckonings, (d) injustice, (e) factors in the criminal justice system that help or hinder, (f) the role of time, (g) faith, and (h) family and friends. Findings suggest that posthomicide well-being is associated with cognitive and emotional movement in a forward direction. Discussion centers on the prevention of or reduction in barriers that block survivors’ movement.