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.

Research results

  • Two hands supporting two people
    23.06.2026 | Estimated reading time: ~ 10 minutes Protecting against IPV means protecting children!
    Intimate partner violence affects also the children who witness the violence. The numbers are alarmingly high: approximately 60% of women affected by intimate partner violence lived with their children, and more than half of these children either see or hear the violence directly or are directly affected by it. We examine the effects of domestic violence on children, the role of child welfare services in protecting families, and the challenges faced by those affected in this area.
    Read more
  • 20.04.2026 | Estimated reading time: ~ 12 minutes Theory and practice: The advisory council of affected persons at S.I.G.N.A.L.
    Leonie Traub, Sarah MaierWe analyzed posts in online forums where individuals write about relationship conflicts. Since these posts are written anonymously, we were unable to ask the users for their consent. To discuss the extent to which anonymously written posts can be used for research purposes and how affected individuals can best benefit we collaborated with the advisory council of affected people at Signal. Two members agreed to give us an interview about their work.
    Read more
  • Unterstützungspersonen-Illustration klein
    16.02.2026 | Estimated reading time: ~ 6 minutes Who do we talk to when there is (violent) conflict in a relationship?
    Leonie Traub, Katharina Vitt, Sarah MaierWhen people experience conflicts or violence in couple relationships, they often do not seek support from the violence support system or the police [1,2]. The private environment often plays an important role in the support process [3]. In German-speaking countries, we know little about the role of caregivers and places in the everyday environment. The aim of this survey was to investigate where affected people discuss their situation.
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  • 24.11.2025 | Estimated reading time: ~ 3 minutes Femicides in Germany - lack of research, legal gaps and dangerous narratives
    Sophie Böhler & Sarah Maier The number of cases of gender-based intimate partner violence has been rising sharply for years, as shown by the latest federal crime statistics; femicide figures also remain alarming. At the same time, limited research hampers clear legal classification. Public debate often focuses on isolated measures rather than a comprehensive strategy against structural violence. Racist and classist narratives further distort the issue by blaming specific social groups, hindering effective prevention and political action.
    Read more

Contact

If you have any questions about the research, please contact

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

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