Supporting Research
EVAWI has materials explaining the rationale for Start by Believing, documenting its research base, and demonstrating its impact. Feel free to use this information to develop your own presentations, campaign materials, grant proposals, and more.
Start by Believing: Participation of Criminal Justice Professionals
This training bulletin debunks the notion that criminal justice professionals’ participation in Start by Believing compromises their ability to remain objective. While questions of bias are sometimes raised, arguments are offered to help explain the purpose of the campaign and defend the rationale for criminal justice participation.
Interviews with Victims vs. Suspects: Start by Believing and the Question of Bias
This training bulletin examines the Start by Believing philosophy and its implications for victim and suspect interviews. The purpose is to explain what this philosophy does – and does not – say about how to approach sexual assault investigations.
Start by Believing to Improve Response to Sexual Assault and Prevent Gender Bias
This training bulletin examines questions that have been asked about the philosophy of Start by Believing, and other victim-centered and trauma-informed approaches. It then prepares criminal justice professionals to respond to any defense cross-examination by explaining how a law enforcement investigation of sexual assault can remain unbiased.
Improving Responses to Sexual Assault Disclosures: Both Informal and Formal Support Providers
This training bulletin reviews the research on sexual assault disclosures and the responses survivors receive, then examines public awareness campaigns to prevent sexual assault and improve responses, including Start by Believing.
