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
Safe & Together Institute’s Family & Friends Ally Guide
Dr. Anni Donaldson’s blog on rural domestic abuse
The story of Glasgow’s Magdalene Institution by Dr. Anni Donaldson
David Mandel’s book Stop Blaming Mothers and Ignoring Fathers: How to Transform the Way We Keep Children Safe from Domestic Violence
Safe & Together Institute’s domestic abuse–informed trainings
Safe & Together Institute’s upcoming events