NCJ Number
232646
Date Published
December 2010
Length
8 pages
Annotation
This report examines the success of legally mandated intervention programs for male perpetrators of domestic violence in Australia.
Abstract
The analysis found that on the whole male perpetrators of domestic violence appeared to make some improvements in areas which were targeted by intervention. Improvements included an increased awareness of the problematic nature of their behavior, less supportive attitudes towards domestic violence, an increased understanding of the key concepts of the intervention program, and increased confidence in their ability to not act violently against their domestic partner in future situations. The review also found that those who completed the program had fewer charges of domestic violence against them in the 12-month follow-up period. Data for this report came from a study that evaluated the success of a perpetrator intervention program in Queensland that targets domestic violence. Self-report data were drawn from 38 men, aged 19 to 53, who participated in the program between 2006 and 2009; 20 of the men completed the program. Data were derived from the following sources: pre-program assessment questionnaires; interviews with participants; pre- and post-program questionnaires; ratings made by the facilitators and participants on a weekly basis and during the course of the program; and a database check 1 year after program completion. Results of the study suggest cautious optimism for success of the program. Limitations of the study are discussed. Table, figures, and references