Season 6 Episode 4: The Paradox of Proximity: Understanding Domestic Abuse in Rural and Remote Communities

About This Episode

In this episode, David and Ruth speak with Dr. Anni Donaldson about her groundbreaking research examining domestic abuse in Scotland’s rural, remote, and island communities.

Dr. Donaldson, an honorary research fellow at the University of Strathclyde and longtime expert in gender-based violence, shares insights from interviews with survivors and professionals about the unique dynamics of domestic abuse in small, interconnected communities.

Key topics include:

  • The "paradox of proximity"—how physical isolation combines with close social connections to create unique challenges for survivors in rural areas

  • How community connections can be both supportive and entrapping for survivors experiencing domestic abuse

  • How perpetrators exploit small community dynamics and relationships to maintain control

  • The incredible protective efforts of survivors, including maintaining children’s routines and well-being despite multiple forced moves

  • The impact of the Safe & Together Model in helping professionals challenge victim-blaming attitudes and better support survivors

Dr. Donaldson discusses how traditional social work approaches focused solely on “problem-solving” often miss the emotional realities and strengths of survivors including: 

  • Validating and building on survivors’ existing protective efforts

  • Recognizing how historical distrust of authorities impacts help-seeking

  • Using technology and remote options to increase accessibility 

Additional Resources

Previous
Previous

Season 6 Episode 5: Coercive Control & Children 2025: Conference Insights from Melbourne

Next
Next

Season 6 Episode 3: Rethinking Gender-Based Violence Prevention: A Call to Action with Jess Hill and Michael Salter