An ecological approach to understanding police domestic abuse investigations

Purpose This paper aims to investigate how an ecological approach to understanding the contemporary investigation of domestic abuse (DA) can provide new insights into how police performance may be improved. Design/methodology/approach This paper draws from a multifaceted fieldwork project that took place in one English police force. We propose a conceptual framework that builds on previous research to guide our analysis of a 3-year dataset containing all officially recorded DA incidents and crimes recorded by the force during 2022–24 (n = 114,874 unique occurrences) alongside qualitative data sources including site visits, interviews and focus groups, and a review of internal policies and guidance. Findings Applying an ecological perspective to understanding police DA investigations has revealed the importance of considering the barriers and enablers to effective police performance at multiple levels, including the national, crime type, police force and officer role contexts. Research limitations/implications Our conceptual framework provides a starting point for ongoing elaboration to refine our knowledge of effective strategies for improving DA investigations. Practical implications Evidence-based interventions to improve policing must take into account the complex, multi-level dynamics influencing police performance rather than implementing initiatives which focus solely on changing individual officers. Originality/value Our conceptual framework enabled more in-depth understanding of the processes shaping police DA investigations and could prove useful to other jurisdictions seeking to design and implement a comprehensive reform agenda on any policing issue.