Sociological Research Online, 2014, 19(1): 2 (13 pages)

This article focuses on the tensions that can arise from the research governance of violence and abuse research. [The authors] argue that increased scrutiny of violence and abuse as a 'sensitive' topic that involves 'vulnerable' groups has made ethical clearance more challenging, which in turn can lead to a dangerous lack of evidence. This can have a harmful impact upon women and children and leave specialised violence and abuse services facing a precarious future. Drawing on recent debates [the authors] describe the 'positive empowerment' approach used to engage victim-survivors and perpetrators of domestic violence in Project Mirabal. [The authors] conclude with recommendations for ethical decision-making in violence and abuse research: (i) to reconsider participants as active agents and stakeholders; (ii) to prioritise the development of skilled researchers; (iii) to develop situated processes of informed consent and confidentiality; and (iv) to continue to discuss and share practical experiences of feminist research practice that seeks to deliver justice and social change. Ifrom the abstract)