10 - Using trauma-informed, survivor-centered, and culturally-rooted methods to evaluate gender-based violence survivor-serving agencies

Abstract Information: Evaluating gender-based violence (GBV) services and survivor outcomes presents unique challenges and requires an approach that goes beyond traditional deficit-based models. This session critically examines the application of trauma-informed, survivor-centered, and culturally-rooted approaches to evaluation, prioritizing strengths, safety, and empowerment. We will delve into the design and implementation of process evaluation (program-focused) methods and survivor outcome assessments. These approaches can utilize open-ended questions to illuminate strengths and coping mechanisms, incorporate culturally-appropriate tools, and ensure trauma-informed care throughout the evaluation process. Emphasis will be placed on how to develop tools and processes that truly reflect the lived experiences and goals of survivors. Trauma-informed (TI) approaches prioritize individualized goals and choices, potentially challenging standardized data collection. We will discuss the value of robust data in capturing survivors' complex experiences and how to balance standardization with the need for flexibility. Traditional outcome assessments, with their focus on symptom reduction and dichotomous outcomes, such as employed vs. non-employed, housed vs. unhoused can be enhanced to provide a more nuanced understanding of how programs facilitate change. Increasing the information captured can provide more nuanced evaluations which explain how program services help, something that is often lacking. The term "survivor-centered" reflects an unwavering commitment to prioritize survivor well-being and agency throughout the evaluation process. This involves actively including survivors in tool design, implementation, and dissemination of findings. Alongside evidence-based practices, this approach emphasizes practice-based evidence – defined as "emphasizing ecological validity by attending to the complex, dynamic contexts in which service provision occurs” (Macy et al., 2022, p. 3). We'll explore how to integrate these approaches, establishing feedback loops between evaluators and survivors for continuous improvement. Discussion Topics & Questions: -How can survivor-centered goals be meaningfully integrated into outcome evaluations? -What strategies facilitate the collection of strengths-based data? -How can these principles be applied in diverse contexts, including low-resource settings? -How can evaluation tools balance standardization with cultural and site-specific flexibility? -How can survivors be actively engaged in all stages of evaluation and dissemination? -What are the challenges of this approach (e.g., time commitment, potential for retraumatization) and how can they be mitigated? By reimagining evaluation as a collaborative process that emphasizes survivor strengths, safety, and agency, we can develop more effective and empowering GBV services. This session fosters critical dialogue and knowledge exchange to drive this transformative practice. Macy, R. J., Eckhardt, A., Wretman, C. J., Hu, R., Kim, J., Wang, X., & Bombeeck, C. (2022). Developing Evaluation Approaches for an Anti-Human Trafficking Housing Program. American Journal of Evaluation, 10982140211056913.