Despite the long-term historical trend toward the reduction of violence in most high- and middle-income countries to an all-time low, violence is still a major cause of death, injury and mental ill-health in modern societies. Intimate Partner Violence is a major problem globally, with around one third of women reporting having ever experienced such violence, and even higher numbers in some low-income countries. Child maltreatment and adverse childhood experiences represent one of the most prominent threats to childhood development and are strongly associated to later-life behavioural disorders and violent behaviours. Furthermore, the environment plays an important role in the commission of violence. For example, the accessibility of alcohol and drugs, the availability of weapons (e.g. knives and firearms), and the characteristics of the built environment are all important situational determinants of violence interactions and may be important targets for reducing harm.

DSPI researchers have undertaken research and policy impact work with a range of international organisations including WHO, UNICEF, the CDC, the Board of Blueprints for Violence Prevention, the PreVAiL (Preventing Violence Across the Lifespan) research network, UK government departments, as well as a range of other police, health and social welfare agencies. Using innovative systematic review methods and applied causal impact evaluations, our work seeks to identify innovative interventions and policies for reducing antisocial behaviour, violent injury, reducing harsh parenting and violence against women and children.