Center for Women´s Health and Wellness
Reducing the Research-Gap in Domestic Violence
The underutilization of research by domestic violence practitioners and the lack of attention by researchers to the experiences and wisdom of practitioners have been identified by numerous scholars. This “research-practice gap” has the potential to hinder progress in both research and practice. In the area of practice, approaches shown to be ineffective may continue to be used, and demonstrated effective approaches may fail to be implemented. In the area of research, failure to consider practical implications of studies can lead to research that is out of line with the actual needs of clients and service providers. For these reasons, the domestic violence research-practice gap represents a significant challenge for both researchers and practitioners to address.
Dr. Christine Murray (Assistant Professor, Department of Counseling and Educational Development, UNCG) is leading our study to understand the nature of this “gap” and develop solutions to reduce it. To date we have conducted a survey with domestic violence researchers and a study, using Delphi methodology, with representatives of state-level domestic violence coalitions.
Our paper summarizing the results of the survey with researchers is in press [Murray C.E. and Smith, P.H. Perceptions of Research and Practice among Domestic Violence Researchers. Journal of Aggression, Conflict and Peace.]. To obtain a summary of our study with state-level practitioners, download this pdf file. We would like to thank the National Network to End Domestic Violence for this help with this study.