Reducing Domestic Abuse Problem Analysis Helen Grimbleby Solicitor, Researcher

Outline What are problem analysis and problem orientated policing? Key problem analysis techniques Theories of Domestic Abuse

What is Problem Analysis? Defining a problem Understanding the cause and symptoms of a problem Considering the range of solutions to the problem Testing solutions

Problem Oriented Policing “ …. is an approach to policing in which discrete pieces of police business (each consisting of a cluster of similar incidents, whether crime or acts of disorder, that the police are expected to handle) are subject to microscopic examination … in hopes that what is freshly learned about each problem will lead to discovering a new and moreeffective strategy for dealing with it.”

Problem Oriented Policing “Problem-oriented policing places a high value on new responses that are preventive in nature, that are not dependent on the use of the criminal justice system, and that engage other public agencies, the community and the private sector when their involvement has the potential for significantly contributing to the reduction of the problem.” Herman Goldstein (2001)

Problem Solving Technique: SARA Scanning Analysis Response Assessment

SARA - Scanning Is there a problem? What is the problem? What are the consequences of the problem for the community and the agencies? How frequently does the problem occur and how long it has been taking place? What are our broad goals? Which problems need closer examination?

SARA - Analysis What data should we collect*? What do we already know*? What are the events that precede and accompany the problem*? What are we doing at the moment and is it any good**? Can we narrow the scope? What resources which might help a deeper understanding?

What do we know and need to know*? Routine Activity Theory Routine activities of offender and victim produce crime patterns (Felson 2002)

What do we know and need to know*? Problem Analysis Triangle

What do we know and need to know*? Exercise

Key theories of domestic abuse Societal Theories Families/Systems Theories Individuals Characteristics Theories

Is what we are doing any good**? SWOT StrengthsWeaknesses OpportunitiesThreats

SARA - Response What could we do? What have others done? Select an intervention Develop outline plan Get on with it

SARA - Response Exercise

SARA - Assessment Did you do what you said you would? Consider your data Did you meet your goals and objectives? Do you need to do anything new? Keep going!

Conclusion “If you only have a hammer, you tend to see every problem as a nail”. Abraham Maslow

Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs Self Actualisation Esteem Needs Belongingness & Love Safety Biological & Psychological INTERNET!