Knowledge translation in the field of violence against women and children: An assessment of the state of knowledge

There is a significant discrepancy between the production of the most recent research findings and the utilization of the findings by practitioners. The scientific research on knowledge translation appears to offer a promising way to close this gap. However, it is still a young and undeveloped field, particularly with regard to violence against women and children, for which there is no overview of the studies that have been done. Without such a knowledge base, it is hard to support researchers and caseworkers in the knowledge translation process, and ultimately, enhance the physical and emotional safety and well-being of abused women and children. The aim of this review of the literature was therefore to take stock of the main areas of research on knowledge translation as they apply to the issue of violence against women and children. The review found 22 studies that met the criteria for inclusion. It highlights a number of barriers to knowledge translation in the field of violence as well as the lack of diversity in the knowledge translation strategies studied. Lastly, the review underscores the urgency of the need to document research initiatives in existing research–practice partnerships as a means of expanding scientific knowledge about knowledge translation in the field of violence.