Victim-survivor orientated technology-based interventions to address e-DFV: a scoping review

Purpose: Technology-facilitated domestic and family violence, or e-DFV, is a prevalent yet often overlooked form of abuse experienced predominantly by women. While there is extensive literature documenting how technology is used in DFV, little is known about whether and how technology can be used to address e-DFV. This review aimed to explore what is known about online or technology-based interventions that address victim-survivors' experience of e-DFV. Methods: We followed the PRISMA-ScR guidelines. The PsychINFO, JSTOR, Web of Science, PubMed, Scopus, CINAHL and SocIndex databases were searched for relevant sources. Grey literature was identified using base-search and Google Advanced. Search results were screened according to inclusion criteria of i) being a technology-based e-DFV intervention and ii) being an intervention for adult victim-survivors. Seven sources were included in this scoping review, four of which reported on the same intervention but presented unique data. Results: All interventions provided tailored technology-based solutions for people experiencing e-DFV. Information provision and technology-supported reporting and documentation of abuse were also common features. No intervention involved efforts to engage with companies to increase online and technology-based safeguards. Content analysis of stakeholder feedback (victim-survivors, frontline workers, and technology experts) identified sense of safety, knowledge and information, and practical considerations as key components to consider when designing interventions. All interventions were well received by stakeholders, however more robust evaluation is needed. Conclusions: We discuss the implications of these findings for policy and practice in improving e-DFV responses.