Use of technology in responsesto intimate partner violence:Victims Perspective

Abstract

Background: Technology has invented many appliances and tools (e.g. smart phones, GPS, mini cameras, mobile phones, internet, much software, etc.) which has also opened various career prospects for professionals .Use of technology has both positive and negative effects on human life. Police administration uses technology in searching and arresting criminals. At the same time criminals are also using technology for extending their crimes. Technology has a crucial role in both preventingand increasing intimate partner violence. Intimate partners are using technology as a tool of “Power & Control” to abuse their spouses

Aims: To discuss the nature of intimate partner violence with the help of technology, based on few case studies fromIndia& USA.

Tools: Use of modern technologies like Mobile Phones, telephone, Fax Machines, computer, Cameras, internet etc.

Results: Focused on the victims and their perspective on their feeling as a “double victim”; they become victims of undocumentedand unreported violence by their intimate partners as well as of the technology. Intimate partners make the victims more helpless, silent and to stay in the abusive relationship.

Conclusion: it is important for advocates, counselors and other professionals working in this field to knowmore about thetechnologies and also how to operate them. So that when the victims come to seek help from them, they can providethemwith technology aided safety planning to protect the victims from further abuse