Losing A Loved One To Intimate Partner Homicide: Giving Voice To Co-Victims
Tracks
Room 2: In-Person Only
Tuesday, November 25, 2025 |
11:25 AM - 11:45 AM |
Overview
Li Eriksson, Griffith University
Details
1. We need to better understand the service utilisation patterns and post-homicide experiences of co-victims of intimate partner femicide
2. The grieving process for co-victims of intimate partner femicide is complex, shaped by a unique combination of trauma, injustice, unresolved questions, and reduced sense of safety
3. Ongoing support services are essential for delivering evidence-based care to co-victims of intimate partner femicide
Speaker
Dr Li Eriksson
Senior Lecturer
Griffith University
Losing a loved one to intimate partner homicide: Giving voice to co-victims
Presentation Overview
It is estimated that one woman per week becomes a victim of intimate partner femicide (IPF). In the aftermath, their loved ones, such as immediate family members and close friends, are left to navigate the grief and trauma. Referred to in the literature as “co-victims” or “secondary victims”, these individuals are recognised by the United Nations’ Declaration of Basic Principles of Justice for Victims of Crime and Abuse of Power as victims in their own right. However, little is known empirically about the co-victims of intimate partner femicide, especially in Australia. Much of our knowledge of co-victims stem from the literature on homicide more broadly. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with eight family members and friends of IPF victims in Queensland and New South Wales. Emerging themes include 'traumatic grief', 'fear of offender', 'blame and guilt', 'discontent with CJS', and 'her memory lives on'. The findings are presented within the context of victims rights.
Biography
Li Eriksson is a Senior Lecturer in the School of Criminology and Criminal Justice at Griffith University and a member of the Griffith Criminology Institute. Her research examines developmental and contextual predictors of lethal and non-lethal family violence. She is the lead investigator on the Australian Homicide Project. Prior to joining Griffith University, Li worked as a Research Analyst for the Swedish National Council of Crime Prevention.
