Huddersfield researchers develop AI tool to uncover hidden patterns of psychological abuse

Description

Researchers at the University of Huddersfield have developed a pioneering artificial intelligence tool designed to help investigators identify patterns of psychological abuse hidden within vast amounts of digital evidence.

The innovation, created as part of PhD research by Dhruv Patel under the supervision of Dr Anju Johnson, aims to tackle a growing challenge in modern forensic investigations — detecting coercive control and other forms of non-physical abuse embedded in messages, emails and chat logs.

Subject

Dr Johnson added that the research represents a step forward in bridging the gap between raw data and actionable evidence.

“This work provides a scientifically robust framework for understanding hidden abuse,” she said. “It offers investigators and the courts a transparent and objective way to analyse complex behavioural patterns, ensuring that victims’ experiences are supported by credible, data-driven evidence.”