To Örebro University

Given the profound consequences of post-separation violence on the well-being and quality of life of many women and children, protecting victims from further violence is a paramount concern. Understanding the complex challenges faced by women at risk for such violence is crucial for improving strategies for managing this risk and ensuring the safety of these women and children. In Sweden, access to society’s protective interventions often relies on the women actively seeking them. The aim of this study was to analyse the process of protection against post-separation violence as described by women with children in Sweden. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with women who had experienced domestic violence and were assessed with low to moderate risk of revictimization. The interviews explored strategies they employed on their own and the risk management interventions they received. Through thematic analysis, we identified five themes: activating own safety strategies, seeking societal protection, utilizing societal protection, bridging gaps in societal protection, and resigning to live unprotected. Together, they form a process of protection characterized by mothers employing numerous strategies at different phases to safeguard themselves and their children, relying on their own initiative as well as the assistance offered by society. However, despite these efforts, some mothers and children remained unprotected and were obligated to resign to live with post-separation violence. This study underscores the extensive demands placed on women subjected to violence, despite the presence of relatively strong legal rights and a well-developed societal system.

Effective risk management strategies for victims of domestic violence require an adequate risk assessment. While risk assessments for domestic violence typically focus on the adult victim, the risk of children who are exposed to such violence is often overlooked. This study aims to explore what risk, vulnerability and protective factors can be identified through forensic interviews with children exposed to domestic violence. A qualitative latent content analysis was conducted on documented forensic interviews with 41 children. The results show that children reported factors that should be taken into consideration when managing the risk of violence for their mother. In addition, the children's responses suggest the need for a separate risk management plan to address their needs and to protect them from re-victimization. Direct communication with children is crucial to identify factors that are unique to them. These results emphasize the significance of including their perspective in risk assessments for domestic violence to influence the risk management that includes both mothers and their children.

Children exposed to domestic violence (DV) face a heightened risk of many types of short- and long-term problems. Social workers can limit these risks if the support and help they offer is perceived as valuable by the child. The aims of this review were to identify what children exposed to DV value when meeting social workers, to suggest how this knowledge can be used in practice by professionals dedicated to working with these children and to identify and suggest key areas of focus for future research. A synthesis of 18 studies reveals that, in meetings with social workers, children exposed to DV value (1) basic requirements, (2) inclusion, (3) acknowledgement and (4) enjoyment. This review offers a smorgasbord of opportunities for practitioners to meet the wishes and needs of these children. However, comparative research is needed to facilitate adaptation and to distinguish between elements valued by children that are core prerequisites for helping them disclose their experiences and/or aiding their recovery and elements that are less crucial but still valued.