Overview of Research – Coercion and abuse in cults, trafficking and families

Full Title: Overview of Research – Coercion and abuse in cults, trafficking and families
Author: Roderick Dubrow-Marshall

Abstract: This presentation will provide a contemporary and historical overview of key areas of research internationally on cults and extremist groups and related areas of coercion including intimate partner violence, trafficking and gangs. Research will be highlighted from different geographical regions and jurisdictions, as has been on display regularly at ICSA conferences and at the monthly ICSA Research Network Seminars. The session will also focus on the opportunities and challenges in developing new research projects in these different areas, including getting institutional approval (IRB or ethics committee), finding participants, clarifying aspects of research design and getting support from faculty and funders. Exciting options for future research including possibilities for collaboration and partnerships will also be highlighted. The practical implications of research on cults and coercive control across contexts of family violence, gangs and trafficking will also be discussed including for policy, practice and in legal settings. The session will also present details about the ICSA Research Network Seminar series and will also discuss the development of the International Journal of Coercion Abuse and Manipulation (IJCAM) and other conduits for research outputs (including conferences in different regions/countries). If you interested in joining the ICSA Research Network and/or would like a specific topic discussed at the monthly seminars then please contact the Research Committee and Network Chair, Rod Dubrow-Marshall, at [email protected]