Discuss the rediscovery of crime victims during the 1950s and early 1960s. Be sure to include a discussion on the impact of the various social movements of the time period

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

The rediscovery of crime victims was instigated through the work of social movements. The focus of the movements was to increase victim's rights, services, and programs. The women's movement worked diligently to increase awareness of rape and domestic violence, crimes that impact women disproportionately compared to men. The result of their hard work was the creation of rape crisis centers, battered women shelters, and ultimately policy changes—such as recognizing domestic violence as a violent crime. The law-and-order movement increased awareness of violence and theft as crime rates were increasing during this time period of the 1960's. The main focus was on increased punishment and more social control over deviant behavior. Finally, the civil rights movement centered their energy on the disparity in the representation of people of color throughout the criminal justice process. In addition, they focused their attention on threats of racial violence such as lynch mobs.