[T]he long term impact of experiencing domestic abuse during childhood and preliminary research into abusive relationships will be shared by two Cumbrian academics at a specialist national conference later this week.
The event, Integrating Research and Practice to Combat Violence and Interpersonal Aggression, will be hosted by the Violence and Interpersonal Aggression Research group at Coventry University on June 8/9.
Angie Boyle, a lecturer in social work at the University of Cumbria, is among delegates who will be presenting work which provides differing perspectives over a broad range of topics relating to violence. She’s currently preparing to examine the long term impact on adults who witnessed domestic abuse as children with a particular focus on how victims were able to develop resistance and resilience.
“There is very little research in this area yet it is such a huge social issue,” Angie says. “It’s great to be invited to attend an event which aims to draw together contemporary research and practice to inform current approaches to understanding violence and aggression in our society.”
Angie’s research will form the basis for her PhD thesis which will build on her previous experience working with Let Go as an Independent Domestic Violence Advocate. The Carlisle based lecturer has also worked with housing, health and social care staff to raise awareness of domestic abuse, lessen the stigma surrounding mental health and provide diversity training.
Colleague Dr Liz Bates, a senior lecturer in applied psychology, will also be offering preliminary findings of her research prompted by statistics revealing a third of all domestic abuse victims are male.
“I expected to receive around 50 responses to a questionnaire about the issue – in the event over 150 completed it with respondents taking part from around the world,” Dr Bates said. Work to analyse responses and carry out interviews will take place later this year.
The two-day conference will feature internationally recognised keynote speakers who will provide differing perspectives over a broad range of topics relating to violence. The event will also provide the opportunity to bring together academics, practitioners and policy makers to encourage debate about current approaches to violence and aggression, aimed
at sharing best policy and practice.
