Virtual Support and Intimate Partner Violence Services: A Scoping Review

Abstract

Purpose: This article reports on a scoping review that maps the empirical research on virtual intimate partner violence (IPV) interventions. Method: Following the Joanna Briggs Institute’s nine-step scoping review methodology, 25 studies were selected. Results: The majority of the studies (72%) were published in the United States, and included quantitative (56%), mixed methods (24%), and qualitative study designs (20%). The most frequent focus of the virtual interventions to support survivors of IPV included safety (52%), with other interventions focusing mainly on treatment (36%), and education and prevention (12%). Forms of interventions included interactive, internet-based (72%), smartphone apps (16%), live videoconferencing (8%), and an asynchronous chatroom (4%). Barriers and strengths of virtual IPV interventions are identified. Discussion: From this analysis, emerging models in virtual IPV intervention are identified, as well as next steps necessary in virtual IPV practice and research. The article concludes with implications for social work practice and research.