How Technology Can Help Stop Domestic Violence
Domestic violence occurs more regularly than most want to think about, and technology can be painted as a tool to help perpetrators. Yet we would like to show you ways in which technology can, and is, being used to combat it.
Ever since phones have been in houses they have provided a, sometimes literal, lifeline for those at risk. Domestic violence can be isolating, due to the controlling nature that perpetrators have, so opportunity for contact to outside is vital. This is vital, as technology has expanded the number of items we can use to connect to others, such as through phones, electronic watches, computers and laptops. Even if you physically cannot touch your phone, electronic assistants such as Alexa or Siri can use it to call emergency services. Wearable technology can also be used to send other alerts, for example if you feel in danger, and be used to record data, such as video or picture evidence, which could be used as documentation in court if necessary.
The internet also provides a wealth of information for people who think they may be experiencing domestic violence, you can access services such as mental health professionals, find local centers to help, connect to others who have similar experiences, find contact details for therapists,and even find how others escaped their perpetrators and what to do in different situations.
Social media and blogs can be used to highlight violence and inequality, to increase knowledge of the topic and bring awareness. This data can be used to crowdsource information, and strengthen documentation reporting and monitoring. It has opened a space for people to advocate, share, find comfort and heal together; a space to find hope that may not be possible without online access.
Being able to purchase things virtually or via apps, with an electronic bank account opened in secret or with the aid of others, could help those whose abusers choose to exert financial control, opposed to physical cards or needing to go to a bank.
Chatbots and AIs, such as our own AINO, can also respond to those in need anytime 24/7 as help is needed, opposed to having to wait till staff are available. They are especially useful if someone feels they have no one to talk to in real life, or are too isolated to access anyone. Moreover digital resources and hotlines, like ours, can also provide legal information and access to help. They can also help give access to those who are in remote areas, or otherwise isolated.
As technology advances there is an increasing amount of digital services and benefits to using technology to help others, be it through a shared community or for informational purposes.
We hope that this has been helpful for you, and if you are looking for more information check out our website or our AINO Chatbot.
