THE IMPACT OF HATE VIOLENCE ON VICTIMS - EMOTIONAL AND BEHAVIORAL-RESPONSES TO ATTACKS

Criminal acts stemming from prejudice based on race, religion, sexual orientation, or ethnicity-frequently referred to as ''hate violence''- have increased during recent years. This study explored the nature of hate attacks and victims' responses to them. The sample consisted of 5 9 victims and included black, white, and Southeast Asian people. Data were obtained through focus group meetings, individual interviews, and questionnaires. More than half of the victims reported experiencing a series of attacks rather than a single attack. Anger, fear, and sadne ss were the emotional responses most frequently reported by victims. A bout one-third of the victims reported behavioral responses such as mo ving from the neighborhood or purchasing a gun. The responses of hate violence victims were similar to those of victims of other types of pe rsonal crime. Implications for social work intervention are discussed.