The theme for the 2026 conference is:
Expanding the Scope of Coercive Control: Understanding abusive dynamics and their impacts across interpersonal, institutional, and cultic contexts.
In an era marked by increasing polarization, disinformation, and organized manipulation, understanding and protecting against coercion is more relevant than ever. Coercive control refers to a sustained pattern of manipulative and abusive practices designed to subjugate individuals, often resulting in serious consequences for their well-being. While the mechanisms of abuse and resulting harm differ in form and context, there are striking parallels across abusive intimate relationships, gangs, sexual exploitation and trafficking networks, ideological radicalization, and cultic environments. Despite their prevalence, research and evidence-based knowledge of these phenomena remain relatively underdeveloped.
Researchers, practitioners, and individuals with lived experience are warmly invited to submit proposals and join this collaborative effort to advance understanding and strengthen responses to coercive control in all its forms.
ICSA is committed to a transparent and inclusive proposal review process. Follow the link below to learn more about how to submit, our 2026 review process, and other important information.
