Advancing the Study of Violence Against Women: Response to Commentaries and Next Steps

• NCJ Number: 226946
• Journal: Violence Against Women Volume: 15 Issue: 4 Dated: April 2009 Pages: 440-442
• Author(s): Carol E. Jordan
• Date Published: April 2009
• Length: 3 pages
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Report (Study/Research)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

This article responds to the advancement in the study of violence against women (VAW) with the move to a science model.

Abstract

It is argued that a science of VAW offers a unique approach to unifying distinct disciplines around an organizing framework and in doing so provides the realistic mechanism for transdisciplinary research. The study of VAW has unique purpose, and scientific discovery (understanding VAW) must be inextricably tied to the lives of the women affected (ending VAW). There is depth in agreements on the existence of weaknesses in the study of VAW, and little disagreement on the nature of those flaws, lack of infrastructure support, dearth of theory, and more. These weaknesses cause limitations in offering what is necessary to the field of VAW, thereby giving compelling reason to advance the understanding and ending of VAW and to move to a science model, allowing disciplines to remain but their interaction is advanced. A science model provides an intellectual framework that does not limit theory development but rather enhances it.