Class Psychological Intervention with Victims

This course aims to develop specific theoretical and practical knowledge about psychological intervention with victims: basic principles, models, and intervention modalities. It aims to address the process of psychological intervention with victims, providing knowledge about the basic principles of intervention, dilemmas and challenges, and the main victim support services. It also aims to address different modalities of psychological intervention with victims (e.g., crisis intervention, cognitive-behavioral therapy, group intervention), comparing their effectiveness. Students will also train in specific intervention skills for different types of victimization (childhood and adulthood).

CP1. The psychological intervention process with victims

1.1. Basic principles of intervention

1.2. Specificities and ethical issues in the intervention with children and young victims

1.3. Dilemmas, difficulties, and challenges

1.4. Victim resources and support services

CP2. Modalities of psychological intervention with victims

2.1. Crisis intervention

2.2. Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy

2.3. Narrative Therapy

2.4. Group intervention

2.5. Effectiveness of different models of psychological intervention with victims

CP3. Intervention in specific forms of victimization

3.1. Victimization in adulthood

3.1.1. Intimate Partner Violence

3.1.2. Sexual violence

3.1.3. Stalking

3.1.4. Multiple victimization

3.2. Victimization in childhood and adolescence

3.2.1. Physical/ psychological abuse and neglect

3.2.2. Sexual abuse

3.2.3. Interparental violence

CP4. Challenges of intervention with particularly vulnerable victims (e.g., elderly, LGBT, disabled)

Theoretical-practical component, with analysis and discussion of case studies. 

Exercises (e.g., role-play, simulation).

Analysis of articles in small group and subsequent discussion in class.

Cohen, J. A., Mannarino, A. P., & Deblinger, E. (Eds.). (2012). Trauma-focused CBT for children and adolescents: Treatment applications. The Guilford Press.

Feather, J., Ronan, K., & Innes, D. (2010). Cognitive behavioural therapy for child trauma and abuse: A step-by-step approach. Jessica Kingsley Publishers.

Gonçalves, R., & Machado, C. (2008). Violência e vítimas de crimes (Vol. II – Crianças). Psiquilibrios Edições.

Machado, C. & Gonçalves, R. A. (2002). Violência e vítimas de crimes (Vol. I – Adultos). Coimbra: Quarteto.

Matos, M. & Machado, A. (2011). Violência Doméstica: Intervenção em grupo com mulheres vítimas. Manual para profissionais. Comissão para a Cidadania e Igualdade de Género.

Matos, M. (Coord.) (2014). Vítimas de crime e violência. Práticas de intervenção. Psiquilíbrios Edições.

Murphy, C. M., & Maiuro, R. D. (Eds.). (2009). Motivational interviewing and stages of change in intimate partner violence. Springer Publishing Company.