Eden Hoffer

Eden’s doctoral work focuses on understanding how mothers who have experienced intimate partner violence navigate the social systems meant to support their safety and well-being. She examines the challenges survivors face when interacting with healthcare providers, child-welfare services, and the legal system, paying close attention to how policies and institutional practices can unintentionally create new barriers. She holds a B.A. (Hons.) in Criminology and Psychology and an M.A. in Criminology and Social Justice from Toronto Metropolitan University, where her graduate research explored how mandatory police charging policies can sometimes serve to harm – rather than help – women experiencing intimate partner violence. Her work is guided by trauma- and violence-informed, survivor-centred principles that emphasize dignity, choice, agency, and meaningful support. She collaborates with community organizations and policy stakeholders to conduct research that reflects survivors’ needs and can inform real-world improvements. Overall, Eden’s goal is to strengthen policies and practices that reduce barriers to safety, amplify survivors’ voices, and improve outcomes for women and families affected by intimate partner violence.