Public health experts agree that the best approach to slowing the spread of COVID-19 in the U.S. is enacting social distancing measures, including stay-at-home or shelter-in-place orders. However, for vulnerable subpopulations who receive comprehensive domestic violence services from organizations that draw on theories of empowerment and trauma as they design, provide, and evaluate services, this approach is particularly problematic. This Working Group will examine the extent to which such theories can be effectively used in service provision during the COVID-19 pandemic.
CONVERGE is funded by the National Science Foundation (NSF), Division of Civil, Mechanical, and Manufacturing Innovation, Program on Humans, Disasters, and the Built Environment (Award #1841338). Any opinions, findings, conclusions, or recommendations expressed in this material are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the NSF.