NCJ Number
226034
Journal
Journal of Aggression, Maltreatment and Trauma Volume: 18 Issue: 1 Dated: January-February 2009 Pages: 17-45
Date Published
January 2009
Length
29 pages
Annotation
This article describes a program that utilizes a mind-body approach to working with domestic violence offenders and reporting preliminary outcomes (completion and recidivism rates) experienced by the program’s clients.
Abstract
The program approach to treating domestic violence offenders described in this article falls with the mind-body therapeutic tradition. Evidence suggests that mind-body interventions may offer some relief for individuals suffering from a wide range of problems. The mind-body approach to treating illness or personal dysfunction is identified in research as well suited to partner abusers. The rural, Utah State-sponsored domestic violence treatment program that is the focus of this article offers Mind-Body Bridging groups. This treatment approach is based on the premise that the root cause of the explosive state (abusive behavior) is the over-activity of a system in the body called the Identity System, a holistic system responsible for regulating the mind-body state. Mind-Body Bridging is a technique for “resting” the Identity System, or modulating the mind-body state, thereby resolving the explosive state. The preliminary outcomes reported in this article indicate that Mind-Body Bridging may hold promise as an effective approach for treating domestic violence offenders. However, more rigorous studies are recommended as a necessary next step. The use of Mind-Body Bridging represents an attempt to improve domestic violence offender treatment. Tables and references