Victims of Violence: A Demographic and Clinical Study

Abstract

This study is an attempt to evaluate the psychiatric sequelae in victims of violence in Northern Ireland between 1979 and 1984. Seven hundred and nineteen consecutive referrals for medico-legal reports were investigated using detailed analysis of case records. These clients were all seeking compensation for psychological injury allegedly sustained following a violent incident. Details of demographic data, diagnosis and utilization of treatment services were recorded. Clients showed a high rate of anxiety and depressive reactions and neuroses, with notable infrequency in the diagnosis of hysteria and phobic neurosis. A large number of people were prescribed drugs, a significant percentage continuing to take these for over one year. The significance of these results is discussed with regard to the issues of compensation neurosis and ‘nervous shock’.