NCJ Number
217769
Journal
Journal of Family Violence Volume: 22 Issue: 1 Dated: January 2007 Pages: 11-18
Date Published
January 2007
Length
8 pages
Annotation
This paper reviews recent research on the importance of the working alliance, which consists of therapist and client agreement on the goals and tasks of therapy, regarding treatment compliance and outcomes in intervention for perpetrators of partner violence.
Abstract
A number of clinicians and researchers have argued that although it is often difficult to form a positive working alliance with angry and abusive clients, a strong alliance is crucial in motivating these individuals to commit to successful behavioral change. If abusive clients do not believe the therapist is committed to helping them and do not agree with the goals and tasks of treatment, they will not work toward the development of new coping strategies and better ways of handling their anger. Studies to date suggest that the working alliance may be a significant factor in treatment compliance for abusers. Two studies have found significant links between the working alliance and levels of physically and/or emotionally abusive behavior following partner violence intervention. Available data suggest that confrontational tactics are likely to hinder a positive working alliance in therapy and may negatively influence therapeutic progress. In contrast, alliance-enhancing strategies for this population have shown promise. To date, no research has examined the specific impact of confrontational therapist tactics on the working alliance or treatment outcomes with perpetrators of partner abuse. Another area that requires further research is the impact of the working alliance under various types of therapeutic methods. 61 references