NCJ Number
181272
Journal
Violence Against Women Volume: 6 Issue: 1 Dated: January 2000 Pages: 80-102
Editor(s)
Claire M. Renzetti
Date Published
2000
Length
23 pages
Annotation
This article describes advantages and challenges the World Wide Web offers for domestic violence organizations; it also provides discussion and examples of Internet use by domestic violence organizations for direct services and outreach, communication education advocacy, fund raising, and solicitation of volunteers.
Abstract
Domestic violence organizations with a variety of missions and structures are beginning to use the Internet to reach more audiences. Many organizations view the Internet as a means to reach women who might not otherwise find domestic violence services, to broadly communicate their mission and services, and to act as a forum for community education. Other organizations focus on the Internet as a means to contribute to social change through consciousness raising, networking, and advocacy activities. A few organizations are also beginning to use the Internet for fund raising and solicitation of goods and services. The author emphasizes the need for an evaluation of processes or outcomes related to providing services on the Internet. Such an evaluation is necessary to assess the potential downside of having an Internet site, including on-line victimization of users, the impact on staff time, resource costs, potential liability, and site disruption by hostile groups. In addition, the author indicates the Internet should be seen as a supplement and not as an alternative to current domestic violence services. 63 references