Adult survivors of their father’s lethal violence against their mother
The project explores the experiences of people whose father killed their mother during their childhood. The research project is part of a larger study at the Norwegian Centre for Violence and Traumatic Stress Studies (NKVTS) in Oslo.
This project examines the experience of people who, during childhood, were exposed to the killing of their mother at the hands of their father. Through interviews with adults whom, as children, have experienced this form of lethal violence, researchers seek to contribute to the knowledge regarding how society could be better prepared to support and assist, as well as the impact of the bereavement on children and adults’ needs and identity formation.
The aim of this project is to generate new knowledge regarding adults who, as children, were exposed to their father taking their mother’s life. By exploring bereaved children’s personal experiences, we can develop knowledge on how society can act, support and assist children in order to fulfill their needs and safeguard their rights. The knowledge generated through this project will be a significant contribution to all professionals that in, one way or another, encounter this group of children.
The research study includes interviews with adults who, while under 18 years of age, were exposed to lethal violence against a parent. The research project is part of a larger study at the Norwegian center for violence and traumatic stress studies (NKVTS) in Oslo, led by Research professor Gertrud Sofie Hafstad. The study also conducts an analysis of legal documents and other relevant policy documents. The project collaborates closely with colleagues in Australia, the Netherlands and England, through a network of researchers, practitioners and survivors, led by Professor Eva Alisic (University of Melbourne).