Artificial Intelligence (AI) is no longer a concept reserved for sci-fi movies or tech companies. From autocorrect in our texts to voice assistants like Siri and Alexa, AI has become an integral part of our everyday lives. But what about its potential in something vital, such as supporting domestic violence (DV) survivors?
This was the question that inspired last week’s webinar with Sean Dickinson, Lead Developer of By the Pixel and DomesticShelters.org, exploring how AI can be leveraged, safely and ethically, to support survivors and ease the burden on advocates.
But first, what is AI?
AI encompasses a range of technologies that enable performing tasks based on algorithms. However, it’s essential to remember that AI works based on human-created algorithms, data, and prompts. It can only do what it has been trained or instructed to do. In other words, it cannot generate independent thought or make decisions on its own without human direction.
Artificial intelligence didn’t just appear overnight—it has grown and changed over time, kind of like how we go from learning the alphabet to writing complete stories. Here’s how that journey looks in simple terms:
- Rule-based AI is the starting point. In simple words, this system is like following a recipe. If X happens, do Y. Think of this as basic automation.
- Machine Learning came next: It helps AI learn from data and make predictions/suggestions, such as Google’s autocomplete or when your phone finishes your sentence when you are texting.
- Natural Language Processing (NLP) helps computers understand and respond to human language, as seen in chatbots or when we ask questions to our phones.
- Large Language Models (LLMs): Today’s most advanced version of AI, such as ChatGPT, combines these previous elements with massive datasets and computing power to generate human-like responses, almost as if talking to a person.
AI Tools Helping Domestic Violence Survivors
AI has quietly entered the domestic violence (DV) space through tools that improve access, speed up support, and provide personalized services. Here are a few key examples:
- Risk Assessment & Predictive Analytics: AI can scan for red flags, such as escalating violence or the presence of weapons, without introducing human bias. These tools help identify danger more quickly and accurately.
- Chatbots like Hope Chat: Hope Chat is an AI-powered bot developed to offer 24/7 support. It provides survivors with access to resources when human advocates are unavailable, without replacing them.
- Document Review Tools: Survivors can upload legal documents and receive plain-language explanations, helping them understand their rights and options.
- Language Accessibility: AI can help bridge language and financial barriers by offering multilingual support and automating standard services.
- Emotional Support Bots: Apps like WYSA and Youper offer on-demand emotional support using AI trained in mental health best practices.
But what are the Risks?
Just like any powerful tool, AI comes with its challenges, especially when working with vulnerable populations.
- Bias in AI: If AI is trained on biased data, it can reproduce harmful stereotypes. For example, Amazon’s recruitment AI once filtered out female candidates because, historically, women had been hired less frequently than men. The AI learned from past data, which reflected existing gender imbalances, and ultimately reinforced that bias.
- Data Privacy: Survivors’ data must be handled with extreme care. Professionals should always review privacy policies before using new tools or services.
- Deepfakes & Misinformation: AI-generated content can spread false information or impersonate individuals, making digital literacy more crucial than ever.
- Environmental Impact: Training large AI models consumes a lot of energy. Thankfully, new methods are emerging to reduce this footprint.
Using AI Responsibly
Here’s how DV professionals and organizations can embrace AI while staying survivor-centred:
- Pair AI with Human Oversight: AI should assist, not replace—advocates.
- Be Transparent: Communicate the role of AI to staff, partners, and survivors.
- Invest in Inclusive Tools: Select tools that are built with diverse datasets and incorporate ethical design principles.
- Collaborate With Experts: Partner with tech nonprofits, universities, or developers to co-create tools grounded in trauma-informed care.
AI is Here, Let’s Shape It for Good
AI can’t replace the heart and empathy of a human advocate—but it can help us respond faster, reduce burnout, and reach more people in need. The key is to engage with this technology thoughtfully and collaboratively.
If you’re curious, cautious, or ready to dive in, now is the time to start learning, asking questions, and exploring how AI can fit into your mission.
