Introduction

This chapter introduces systems thinking and its transdisciplinary foundations. The chapter introduces a selection of conceptual systems approaches frameworks underpinning the various chapters and in the related literature—particularly in seeking systemic patterns, solutions, and system understandings in the domestic abuse and sexual violence sphere. It also summarises the key terms and definitions used in the book and outlines the key arguments and contributions made in each chapter. The key overarching idea is that in an often complex and nonlinear real-world, systems thinking can offer innovative theories, applications, and practices to tackling domestic abuse and sexual violence. It takes the reader through the journey of the book which has been organised within parts: Part I: multi-agency and community-based systems response and applications; Part II looks at the role (and limits) of tools and conceptual ideas in engendering systems thinking; and Part III is focused on institutional responses and applications of systems approaches.