What Have I Done?: Victim Empathy Exercises for Young People Who Have Offended

Victim awareness and the needs of victims of crime are a major societal concern. "What Have I Done?" is a course to encourage empathy in young people who commit crimes or hurt others through their actions. It is designed to be used directly with young people who have committed a specific crime or caused harm and distress to others through their actions, and challenges the young person to face the harm they have caused and consider what they can do to help put things right. The course is flexible and interactive, and can be used on an individual basis or with small groups, and is suitable for young people with limited literacy. The exercises are challenging, and aim to be engaging through the use of creative arts, film, role-play and discussion. Clear guidance is provided for the course leader, and evaluation is built into the course, including a psychometric test. A DVD to help stimulate discussion is also included. "What Have I Done?" will be ideal for victim empathy work in Youth Offending Teams and Young Offender Institutions, and can equally be used in schools, children homes, youth groups and any context with young people.