“The things we’re complaining about, we’re providing as well”: “dual-use” technologies in the lives of victim-survivors of domestic abuse

Brookfield, Kathryn; Fyson, Rachel; Goulden, Murray

Abstract

Purpose: This paper aims to provide information for professionals and victim-survivors of domestic abuse on the potential risks and benefits of three “dual-use” technologies: smart doorbells, indoor cameras (such as smart baby monitors and pet cameras) and location tracking apps. Design/methodology/approach: This study draws on qualitative interviews conducted as part of a wider mixed-methods study. Participants included UK-based professionals working in the domestic abuse sector and women with lived experience of technology-facilitated domestic abuse. Findings: Professionals and victim-survivors of domestic abuse are using the same apps and devices, as part of post-separation security measures, that perpetrators use to abuse. Whilst these technologies can support evidence gathering and increase women’s sense of safety, they must be used with caution, as their presence can facilitate ongoing abuse and increase the risks of harm to women. Originality/value: To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is original research conducted by the first author. This study makes an original contribution through its focus on the duality of digital technologies in cases of domestic abuse.

Citation

Brookfield, K., Fyson, R., & Goulden, M. (2025). “The things we’re complaining about, we’re providing as well”: “dual-use” technologies in the lives of victim-survivors of domestic abuse. Journal of Adult Protection, https://doi.org/10.1108/JAP-11-2024-0070

• Journal Article Type: Article
• Acceptance Date: Apr 17, 2025
• Online Publication Date: May 7, 2025
• Publication Date: May 7, 2025
• Deposit Date: May 22, 2025
• Publicly Available Date: May 22, 2025
• Journal: Journal of Adult Protection
• Print ISSN: 1466-8203
• Electronic ISSN: 2042-8669
• Publisher: Emerald
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.1108/JAP-11-2024-0070
• Public URL: https://nottingham-repository.worktribe.com/output/49279977
• Publisher URL: https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/jap-11-2024-0070/full/html