What are some questions to ask a victim?

When interacting with a victim, it is crucial to ask questions that prioritize their safety, well-being, and ability to share their experience in a trauma-informed manner. Effective questioning focuses on gathering information without re-traumatizing or leading the individual.

Here are some essential questions to ask a victim:

Prioritizing Safety and Immediate Needs

Before delving into the details of an event, always ensure the victim feels safe and supported. This establishes trust and shows genuine concern for their current state.

• "Are you safe right now?" This is often the most critical first question.
• "What do you need immediately to feel safe or more comfortable?"
• "Is there anyone I can contact for you?"
• "Would you like some water, a blanket, or a quiet space?"

Understanding Their Experience: Trauma-Informed Approach

When a victim recounts a traumatic event, their memory may not be linear or complete. Trauma-informed questions encourage them to share what they remember, without pressure or judgment, respecting the non-linear nature of traumatic memory.

• "Would you tell me what you are able to remember about your experience?" This open-ended question empowers the victim to share what they are ready and able to recall.
• "What are you able to tell me about what was happening before, during, or after the event?" This helps to piece together the timeline from their perspective.
• "If anything, what do you remember hearing during the event?" Sensory details can be powerful memory triggers and are often recalled even when other details are not.
• "Can you tell me, in your own words, what happened?" This allows the victim to lead the narrative.
• "What did you see, hear, or feel?" Focusing on sensory experiences can be less overwhelming than asking for a complete narrative.
• "Is there anything else you recall that might be important, even if it seems small?"

Gathering Specific Details (After Initial Overview)

Once the victim has shared their initial account, and if they are willing and able, more specific, non-leading questions can help clarify details. Always maintain a compassionate and patient demeanor.

• "Can you describe [specific aspect] in more detail?"
• "Where were you when [specific event] occurred?"
• "About what time did [specific action] happen?"
• "Did anyone else see or hear what happened?"

Offering Support and Next Steps

Concluding the conversation with questions about their ongoing needs and available resources is vital for victim recovery and empowerment.

• "How are you feeling right now?"
• "What kind of support would be most helpful to you at this moment or in the coming days?"
• "Are you aware of the resources available to help you, such as victim services, counseling, or legal aid?"
• "Is there anything else you need or want to share with me today?"

General Principles for Asking Questions:

• Be Patient: Allow ample time for responses, and be comfortable with silence.
• Listen Actively: Pay full attention, nod, and provide verbal affirmations.
• Avoid "Why" Questions: "Why" questions can sound accusatory and imply blame (e.g., "Why did you go there?"). Instead, ask "What happened when you went there?"
• Use Open-Ended Questions: These encourage more detailed responses beyond a simple "yes" or "no."
• Maintain a Calm Demeanor: Your presence can significantly impact the victim's comfort.
• Empower the Victim: Give them control over what they share and when. Offer choices and respect boundaries.
• Validate Their Experience: Phrases like "That sounds incredibly difficult" or "I hear what you're saying" can be powerful.

Key Question Categories and Examples

To help structure the conversation and ensure comprehensive support, consider the following table of question categories:

For further guidance on supporting victims and conducting trauma-informed interviews, explore resources from organizations like the National Organization for Victim Assistance (NOVA) or RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network).