Empowering Justice: Applying Empowerment Theory to Law Enforcement Responses to Sexual Assault Survivors
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Published on: February 16, 2011
1School of Social Work, Arizona State University, Phoenix, Arizona, USA.
Abstract:
Sexual assault remains a prominent issue with lasting impacts on survivors. Many sexual assault survivors who report their assault encounter negative experiences with law enforcement, which can contribute to feelings of shame, re-traumatization, and disempowerment. This conceptual paper examines Empowerment Theory as a framework for understanding and addressing these harmful interactions. By tracing the origins and core tenets of Empowerment Theory, this article highlights its person-centered, strengths-based approach and explores how it can inform more supportive, survivor-centered responses within the criminal justice system. Applying this lens has the potential to promote healing and restore a sense of autonomy among survivors who engage with law enforcement post assault.
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