We know more than ever about violence against women — and yet violence against women remains dreadfully common. A central theme of Every 90 Seconds — which launched this month — is how to transform that awareness to widespread, collaborative action. In the book, I argue that collaborative action will require recognizing that each of us has a stake in ending violence against women and a role to play in building a world none of us has known — one without intimate violence.
Of course, that includes our team too. Here are a few things that we’ve been up to lately:
Translating Scientific Knowledge into Action. My new editorial in the Journal of Trauma and Dissociation focuses on how trauma researchers and practitioners can apply our scientific understanding of trauma to action, building on themes from Every 90 Seconds.
“To disrupt the status quo of trauma and violence requires a radical acknowledgment of trauma and its complex interconnections with injustices as well as a commitment to healing and systemic change. With radical acknowledgment comes an opportunity to act in new ways…and to adapt and evolve the way that we work, particularly the way that we work together.”
From “Translating Scientific Knowledge About Trauma into Action,” Journal of Trauma & Dissociation.
Using Research to Advocate for Policy Change. Many of our friends and colleagues working in victim services in Colorado have been active this legislative session advocating for survivors — and we were proud to join them. Our team’s research on intimate partner abuse and brain injury was used in drafting CO SB-57, a survivor-led effort to advance screening for brain injuries among crime victims.
Sharing Research for Action. We shared out research during #SAAM, thanks to the creativity and design skill of team member Adi Rosenthal. Over the course of the month, we went from research on prevalence and impact to taking action. Check out the gallery of images here.
Inviting Others to Action. Our team is working to get our invitation to action out far and wide. Check out these posts at Psychology Today on taking action and responding to sexual assault disclosures as well as a recent Facebook live event with CCASA on Every 90 Seconds!
We’d love to know what actions you’re taking and how research can play a role in supporting your work!
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For more on taking action, check out Every 90 Seconds, available now from Oxford University Press or:
Trauma Research Notes 