NCJ Number
160341
Date Published
1993
Length
285 pages
Annotation
This manual contains ideas, methods, and materials that the Domestic Abuse Project in Minneapolis, Minn., has found to be effective in working with clients in the women's program.
Abstract
The orientation meeting provides an overview of the Domestic Abuse Project (DAP) program and provides some basic educational content. Women are then encouraged to sign up for individual intake sessions if they believe the group will meet their needs. Handouts include a statement of client rights, a description of DAP services, women's program topics, and a protection plan worksheet. An intake assessment is also included in the orientation. The remainder of the manual consists of information and material for 18 "education sessions." The first session is an introduction, which is designed to create a comfortable, nonjudgmental atmosphere in which members feel accepted no matter where they currently are in their lives. Session 2 focuses the clients on the most violent incident; this tends to break down the feelings of shame and isolation battered women often experience. Sharing these incidents also creates a group consciousness in which it is acceptable to share feelings and information about what has happened to them. Other sessions address the myths, causes, and definitions of violence; the progression of violence; what keeps women in the relationship; survival skills; protection planning; feedback; culture of origin and personal empowerment plan; anger; assertiveness and communication; advocacy; therapist exchange; open session; and closure session. Appended supplementary information and a 121- item facilitator bibliography