Our Research Focus and Approach

The accompanying research team focuses on generating insights related to the app and the issue of gender-based intimate partner violence. Their research combines social science and legal perspectives, exploring barriers to support and empowerment, obstacles in criminal prosecution, and how the app can effectively reach and assist individuals at the earliest stages of these processes.

An integral part of this research involves examining the broader phenomenon of gender-based intimate partner violence, its social context, and the conditions that contribute to its emergence and persistence. A empathy-driven, trauma-informed and ethically reflective approach with focus on the individuals experiencing GBIPV is at the core of the research. The team is currently engaged in various work packages and research questions aimed at furthering these critical inquiries.

How Can We Reach Individuals Sooner and What Barriers Do They Face in Seeking Help?

Many individuals affected by gender-based intimate partner violence do not access the help system at all, or only at a very late stage (Müller & Schröttle, 2004). The current objective is to explore how the app can reach those affected earlier and provide easier access to support services. The research also aims to identify existing barriers in the help-seeking process.

The focus is on both formal and informal areas of the help system. To achieve this, qualitative interviews will be conducted with key actors in the support network, and processes related to online help-seeking will be analyzed. Additional research designs are currently being developed to further investigate these critical issues.

Barriers in Criminal Prosecution and the Impact of Psychological Violence

Given the high rate of discontinuation in domestic violence-related criminal proceedings, a qualitative analysis of criminal files is currently underway. The goal is to identify barriers faced by those affected in the criminal justice process and determine how the app can provide support throughout these proceedings. A key focus is on the insufficient consideration of psychological violence and coercive control.

The analysis of criminal files will be complemented by interviews with key participants in the criminal process, including judges, public prosecutors, plaintiff representatives, and psychosocial trial support. Additionally, trial observations will be conducted to further inform the research.

Contact person

Dr. Raik Roth, Head of Research

If you have any questions about the research, please contact

forschung@gewaltfrei-in-die-zukunft.de.

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