Objectives
This was the first representative study of disabled persons' experiences of violence in Austria.
The study's focus was on persons living in institutions. However, all areas and phases of life were of interest.
The results contributed to the prevention of violence and the support of persons affected by violence. They comprised examples of good practice and they supported institutions that have to deal with violence issues.
The study was based on a wide definition of violence, including direct and personal als well as structural violence. In this way, the diversity and complexity of structures of power and violence and the underlying causes could be tackled.
Implementation
To answer the complex questions of the study, we applied a triangulative research approach that combined different quantitative as well as qualitative methods (between method triangulation). A standardized survey among persons with disabilities was carried out throughout Austria, complemented by qualitative interviews with persons from the target group. Additional surveys in institutional contexts based on questionnaires, as well as qualitative interviews with experts and good-practice analyses were carried out.
In the entire process and in the presentation of the results, the anonymity of the participating persons and institutions was guaranteed for. Furthermore we took great care of a voluntary, careful and cautious data provision and collection.
Partners:
Institut für Rechts- und Kriminalsoziologie (Coordination), Ludwig Boltzmann Institut für Menschenrechte, HAZISSA – Fachstelle für Prävention