NCJ Number
208265
Date Published
October 2004
Length
6 pages
Annotation
This study identified characteristics of male domestic partner abusers and examined whether the abusers responded differently to a psycho-educational spousal violence reduction program in Australia.
Abstract
Previous research has discovered that differences in the psychological, behavioral, and physiological characteristics of male partner abusers results in different intervention outcomes for this population. Previous research has also suggested that, based on physiological reactions associated with male abusive behavior, that there are two distinct types of abusers: type 1 and type 2. The current study further investigated the distinctions between type 1 and type 2 abusers and examined whether types of abusers respond differently to the Men’s Behavior Change Program conducted in Victoria, Australia. Participants were 100 men identified by organizations as current partner abusers who completed assessments on 3 occasions before, during, and after participation in the program. Self-administered questionnaires assessed anxiety, mood disorders, anger traits, sex-role beliefs, conflict tactics, and hostility. The analysis indicated that 47 men were type 1 abusers, while 53 were classified as type 2 abusers. These two groups were further divided into three additional groups based on their physiological responses. Both type 1 and type 2 abusers showed decreases on measures of assault, indirect aggression, and negativity as a result of the behavior program. However, attitudes towards women did not change among the abusers classified as antisocial, suggesting that psycho-educational programs are not the most appropriate intervention for this type of abuser. Tables, references