Spirituality and Empathy in Support for Families Affected by Violence

This research focuses on the possible resources of Family Science students and other social workers to achieve and sustain existential empathy when assisting families facing intra- and/or extra-familial violence.

In the academic year 2024-2025, a pilot project was run, in which Family Studies students participated (through project and final pilot) - coordinated with partner colleges of Odisee.

The research runs in collaboration with KULeuven, Clinical Psychology, research group Meaning and Existence (Prof. Dr. S. Vanhooren).

Participating in the pilot study are:

• CAW East Flanders;
• CKG Sloeberhof;
• CKG Kapoentje;
• Youth work Pieter Simenon;
• ECHO (peer support for victims of domestic violence).