Forensic Research Network

Background

The Forensic Research Network is a multidisciplinary collaborative research group at Mount Royal University. It was formed to facilitate collaboration between researchers, whose work is focused on the study of violence prevention, ranging from primary prevention to prevention of the consequences of violent acts. Violent acts such as assault, abuse and sexual assault have been linked with long term consequences such as posttraumatic stress disorder, depression, suicide, substance use, and significantly increased health utilization. It is also recognized that there is a link between being victimized and either re-victimization or subsequent offending behaviour. Effective evidence-based prevention initiatives require an increased understanding of factors associated with increased vulnerability to violence and its consequences, or with effective interventions for victims or offenders.

The purpose of the network is to conduct collaborative research with internal and external partners who share interests in violence prevention and intervention. The intent is that Mount Royal University would develop a long term, sustainable and coordinated program of forensic research, with a focus on violence prevention. The goal is to work toward becoming a centre of excellence in forensic research.

Network Goals

• Sharing of information related to violence education, research, and partnership opportunities
• Identification of knowledge gaps in understanding violence and either prevention of the violence or its consequences
• Conduct of research and other scholarly activities related to reduction in violence or its effects
• Identification of application of research and best practices
• Education & dissemination of evidence based knowledge to partners, peers and the public with applications for practice