Citation

Emezue C. JMIR Public Health Surveill. 2020; ePub(ePub): ePub.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2020, JMIR Publications)

DOI

10.2196/19831

PMID

32678797

Abstract

Before COVID-19, 1 in 3 women and girls, globally, were victimized by an abusive partner in intimate relationships. However, the current pandemic has amplified cases of domestic violence (DV) against women and girls, with up to thrice the prevalence in DV cases compared to the same time last year. Evidence of the adverse effects of the pandemic on DV is still emerging, even as violence prevention strategies are iteratively being refined by service providers, advocacy agencies, and survivors to meet stay-at-home mandates. Emotional and material support for survivors is a critical resource increasingly delivered using digital and technology-based modalities, which offer several advantages and challenges.

This paper rapidly describes current domestic violence mitigation approaches using digital solutions, signaling emerging best practices to support survivors, their children, and abusers during stay-at-home advisories. Some examples of technology-based strategies and solutions are presented. An immediate priority is mapping out current digital solutions in response to COVID-related domestic violence, and outlining issues with uptake, coverage, and meaningful use of digital solutions.

Language: en