This foundation unit will introduce you to core concepts in the field of domestic and family violence practice. There is a specific focus on investigating terminology issues and the prevailing understanding of domestic and family violence at state, national and global levels. You will make critical use of contemporary research, policy documents and legislation that address domestic and family violence (including intimate partner violence and the abuse of children, older persons, parents, siblings and animals). You will examine perspectives and theories that demonstrate the difference between gendered and non-gendered conceptions of domestic and family violence and explore societal and individual influences on this behaviour. You will learn about the sociological nature of domestic and family violence that illustrates the issues faced by priority populations and implications for practice. Legal and safety considerations that arise from working in this context and ethical, professional and self-management implications for practice are explored in this unit.

Every unit is reviewed for enhancement each year. At the most recent review, the following staff and student feedback items were identified and recommendations were made.

Feedback from Student evaluation

Students appreciated the focus on practice in their assessment items.

Continue to provide practice-focused assignments for students in the unit.

Feedback from Student evaluation

Students appreciated being informed about the connection between theory and practice.

Expand efforts to demonstrate the connection between theory and practice by adding in additional examples to the unit materials and through videos.

Feedback from Student evaluation

Students would appreciate more instructions on the assignment than is provided in written instructions and pre-recorded assessment videos.

Hold drop-in sessions specifically for questions on the assignments.