When violence happens to people with mental illness: Disclosing victimization

Of 234 adult victims of a traumatic crime who had a diagnosed mental disorder, 51% reported the crime to the police and 70% to someone else, Those identifying a family member, relative, service provider, or police officer as perpetrator were significantly less likely to report the crime. Those who lived in a group home, had a substance abuse history, or were diagnosed with schizophrenia experienced more negative responses when reporting their victimization. Implications for policy and practice are discussed..