The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on gender-based violence in the United States: Framework and policy recommendations.

Abstract

Objective: In response to the 2019 novel coronavirus pandemic, portions of the U.S. government implemented social distancing policies that, while necessary, yield unintended consequences. This article explores how risk for gender-based violence (GBV) has been exacerbated across the social-ecological model (SEM; e.g., by increasing economic stress and decreasing social support) and highlights differential impact across social locations (e.g., considering race, gender, social class). Method: Drawing on gender-based violence prevention and response research, considerations for researchers, policymakers, and practitioners are delineated. Results: A comprehensive framework adapting an intersectional lens and the SEM is used to explain the changes in risk and protective factors for GBV. Policy recommendations that serve to augment (not replace) social distancing policies are proposed. Conclusion: The pandemic has uprooted life in a way that impacts GBV prevention and response. Yet, this is also an opportunity to define a new way forward rather than return to "business as usual"; psychologists should strive to improve social services by utilizing the SEM and intersectionality. Clinical Impact StatementThis article is a resource to researchers, practitioners, and policymakers to support ongoing efforts combating and preventing gender-based violence now and beyond this pandemic. First, a framework for how social distancing policies' unintended consequences on gender-based violence can be considered is presented. Second, policy recommendations to augment social distancing policies are posited.

Survivors’ Concerns During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Qualitative Insights From the National Sexual Assault Online Hotline

“…As our data were derived from an anonymous, confidential hotline which does not directly solicit information from users, we were also unable to collect demographic data points, although we know that the pandemic impacted communities differently ( Rieger et al, 2022 ). Early findings suggest that demographic factors such as race and ethnicity affect vulnerability to COVID-19-related difficulties.…”

Addressing Gender-Based Violence Using Evidence-Based Practices During COVID-19: The Case of Puerto Rico

“…Social psychology GBV research has focused on the complex interplay between individual, relationship, community, and societal factors that place people at risk or protect them from violence (e.g., Anderson & Anderson, 2008 ; Hollomotz, 2009 ). For example, Rieger et al (2021) recently explored this interplay within the context of intersectionality, defined as the holding of multiple and intersecting identities (e.g., Latina lesbian youth ), and GBV. Their work concluded that effective GBV efforts must be tailored to address structural inequalities and include prioritization of resources and opportunities (e.g., economic, educational), especially for those with intersecting identities who are at increased risk.…”

Campus Sexual Violence Prevention and Response: Lessons from a Pandemic to Inform Future Efforts

“…The heightened risk of gender-based violence during a pandemic in all communities is well documented (Dlamini, 2020; Johnson et al, 2020; Mittal & Singh, 2020; Rieger et al, 2021; Sharma & Borah, 2020), and college and university communities are no exception (Barlow, 2020). The financial challenges and isolation imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic resulted in situations that were less than ideal and, in some cases, unsafe for students and employees.…”

“…In the early months of the pandemic, campus practitioners, researchers, and allies raised alarm that colleges may “abandon” their commitment to SV prevention, despite the increases in violence related to the pandemic (Dlamini, 2020; Johnson et al, 2020; Mittal & Singh, 2020; Rieger et al, 2021; Sharma & Borah, 2020). Campus practitioners also noted the challenges of reaching and supporting SV survivors during this time (Bennett et al, 2021).…”