Introduction
Traumatic relationships between people are always relevant and require extensive, in-depth research. Various aspects such as victimization, oppression, discrimination, or inequality must be overcome by society for legitimate development and sustainability, which can be achieved through the timely correction of negative factors affecting people’s lives. The historical marginalization of particular groups can cause significant inconvenience and discomfort. In connection with the indicated factors, it is necessary to find out what factors contribute to the emergence of negative behaviors and how to deal with them.
Understanding Oppression and Victimization
The first concepts to be considered are oppression and victimization, which are closely related. These terms affect different areas in the context in which they can be studied. Such sciences are criminology, psychology, and sociology, each of which unique aspects indicate the link between victimization and oppression. The first concept refers to the manifestation of systematic ill-treatment of people of certain social groups or specific individuals (TEDx Talks, 2017). At the same time, the concept of victimization refers to the process of experiencing this action by another person or group of people. Therefore, the link between the two is that oppression can lead to victimization, and it can create traumatic memories.
The Connection Between Oppression and Victimization
The relationship between oppression and victimization is because the second concept increases the likelihood that people can become victims. This, in turn, leads to the fact that such persons may fall under the process of victimization as they are victims. These processes can be particularly affected by people belonging to social groups that have historically been marginalized, such as the LGBTQ+ community or racial minorities (Office for Victims of Crime, 2016). Members of these populations may be more likely to be victimized because they are more likely to experience oppression. This is because it creates an imbalance of power that makes it possible for some groups of people to exercise control over others.
Factors Influencing Victimization
An important aspect is to consider factors that may affect the rates of victimization, reporting, and case prosecution among victims. Historically marginalized individuals are at particular risk when it comes to victimization, as they may be less likely to report crime or oppression against them (TEDx Talks, 2017). This silence of the victims can occur for various reasons, the main of which is the fear that the offender will take revenge on them. In addition, an important factor can also be called distrust in law enforcement agencies due to fears that they may have a biased attitude towards certain groups of people.
Factors influencing victimization rates can be effectively considered using the example of sexual violence against women from a marginalized environment. It is more difficult for such persons to contact the police and tell them about what happened, as they may face additional obstacles (NPR, 2018). Such barriers include prejudice that may have developed in the justice system relative to people of color. In addition, competent services that consider cultural diversity and specificity may also be absent, which will cause additional problems.
Unique Challenges Faced by Historically Marginalized Groups
Many issues for historically marginalized groups have certain similar and unique aspects. For example, people who belong to multiple marginalized groups, such as LGBTQ+ women of color, may face challenges that are unique to each group but overlap due to a person belonging to multiple social groups. Older adults can also often be left without help because they cannot get to the police station or because their words are not taken seriously (OVC, n.d d.).
The victim’s identity is of particular importance in understanding what problems they may face. Common properties may be determined by the fact that each person within the same group will be subjected to similar patterns of oppression. Discrimination and victimization make it much more difficult for victims to access and receive assistance.
The experiences of marginalized groups can vary greatly depending on specific historical backgrounds, cultural backgrounds, and heritages. People with disabilities are at particular risk as they are often unable to report or protect themselves from abuse (OVC, 2018). Thus, to move forward, it is necessary to take concrete steps to address the problems of injustice, oppression, and victimization of representatives of historically marginalized groups.
Strategies for Addressing Oppression and Victimization
One way to provide protection can be to use the experience of communities to develop policies and programs aimed at protecting the rights of people who face systemic oppression and victimization. Considering such persons’ experience, it will be possible to take qualitative steps to improve their societal conditions. In addition, an important aspect is also the elimination of systemic prejudices and discrimination. One can implement a new training system for law enforcement officers to help them eliminate prejudice.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it is essential to say that oppression and victimization have many overlapping features that create problematic situations. People who are historically marginalized are at risk for similar criminal acts by dominant social groups. Thus, the government should take specific measures to make life easier for people who experience certain violent episodes. People with disabilities, older people, and any other social minorities should receive the full support that can be provided to them.
References
NPR. (2018). The Sexual Assault Epidemic No One Talks About. Web.
Office for Victims of Crime. (2016). Partners in Justice – BIA Victim Specialists. [Video]. YouTube. Web.
OVC. (2018). Crimes Against People with Disabilities. Web.
OVC. (n. d.). Elder Abuse.
TEDx Talks. (2017). Who is allowed to be a victim? [Video]. YouTube. Web.