Secondary victimization refers to the additional harm that victims experience due to the way they are treated after an incident. An empathetic and professional approach is crucial to prevent this.
What does secondary victimization entail?
Secondary victimization, also known as renewed victimhood, arises when victims have negative experiences during the handling of their case or in interaction with service providers.
Types of secondary victimization
| Source | Examples | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Insurance companies | Skepticism, delays, minimizing complaints | Stress, frustration, feeling of injustice |
| Employers | Pressure to work, threat of dismissal, exclusion | Financial uncertainty, social isolation |
| Doctors | Not being taken seriously, incorrect diagnoses | Worsening of complaints, loss of trust |
| Social circle | Lack of understanding, blame, rejection | Loneliness, depressive feelings |
| Justice system | Prolonged procedures, confrontational interrogations, disbelief | Exhaustion, reliving of trauma |
Causes within the insurance sector
The personal injury industry often receives criticism for practices that contribute to secondary victimization.
Common bottlenecks
Typical problems
- Prolonged processing times
- Frequent changes of contact persons
- Repeated requests for evidence
- Disputing acknowledged damage
- Use of private detectives
- Unrealistically low settlement offers
- Indirect communication via legal parties
Code of Conduct for the Treatment of Personal Injury (GBL)
The GBL was developed to minimize secondary victimization and provides guidelines for fair treatment by all involved parties.
Key principles of the GBL
- The victim is central
- Communication must be open and respectful
- Fast and efficient handling
- Providing appropriate advances
- Expert and independent assessments
Recognizing signs of secondary victimization
It is essential to recognize when a victim becomes a victim again due to the post-incident handling.
Warning signs
| Sign | Manifestation |
|---|---|
| Increased tension | Fear of correspondence or contact moments |
| Skepticism | No longer trusting anything or anyone, checking everything |
| Helplessness | Feeling of having no control over the situation |
| Re-traumatization | Having to tell the story repeatedly |
| Withdrawal | Not opening letters, avoiding appointments |
Countering secondary victimization
Both victims and professionals in Leiden can take steps to prevent secondary victimization.
Advice for victims
- Find a reliable advocate in Leiden
- Leave communication to your representative
- Indicate what your boundaries are
- Find support from peers or local aid organizations
- Document unprofessional behavior well
Guidelines for professionals
- Approach victims with understanding and respect
- Be clear about procedures and deadlines
- Prevent unnecessary delays in the process
- Request only relevant data
- Acknowledge the seriousness of the situation and impact
Complaint filing options in Leiden
In cases of secondary victimization experiences by professionals, there are various agencies in Leiden where you can file a complaint.
Relevant complaint bodies
| Involved party | Complaint body |
|---|---|
| Insurer | Internal complaints procedure, Kifid |
| Opposing party's lawyer | Dean of the Bar Association |
| Medical specialist | Healthcare Disciplinary Board |
| Expertise organization | Complaint to NIVRE or client |
Local support in Leiden
For legal assistance, you can go to the Juridisch Loket Leiden, located at Stationsweg 46. Additionally, the District Court of The Hague, Leiden location, handles cases related to personal injury and secondary victimization.
Frequently asked questions
What to do if my insurer handles my case in Leiden slowly or disrespectfully?
Keep track of all communication and incidents. Have a Leiden-based advocate, such as a lawyer or personal injury specialist, take over the contact. File a complaint via the insurer's internal procedure or with the Kifid. The GBL obliges insurers to handle matters respectfully and promptly. In case of persistent problems, you can consider legal action via the District Court of The Hague, Leiden location.
How do I know if I am becoming a secondary victim?
Watch for signs such as increased stress during contact with involved parties, feelings of helplessness, distrust of professionals, reliving trauma by repeating your story, or avoiding communication.