Mothers’ views about children’s engagement in domestic violence research

Purpose: The voices of children remain overshadowed and marginalized in domestic violence research. Mothers with experiences of domestic violence are central to enabling children’s participation, but few studies focus on their views and perceptions about conducting this research with children. This article addresses this research gap and presents qualitative research undertaken in Australia with mothers on their views about children’s engagement in domestic violence research. Methods: Eleven mothers participated in semi-structured interviews. The domestic violence service sector assisted in recruitment by approaching mothers living in a place of safety. Constructivist grounded theory along with interdisciplinary research, which drew on professional perspectives from social work and occupational therapy, underpinned the methodological approach and data was analyzed through a process of thematic network analysis. Results: While not against children’s involvement in domestic violence research in principle, mothers reported concerns about whether researchers could safely engage children. The possible adverse consequences from children’s participation meant they were extremely reluctant to provide consent. Mothers expressed anxiety about the potential safety ramifications for children and mothers, particularly if the perpetrator found out about their involvement in research. Conclusions: To best enable research, mothers said they needed assurance that the highest level of safeguarding existed, addressing physical safety considerations and emotional, psychological, and cultural safety. Demonstrating that research is trauma-safe, child-friendly, and in the child’s interests is important for gaining mothers’ consent.