Intervention
Part I of this series discussed basics; Part II theory and research. Most researchers concur that the best way to prevent children from witnessing domestic violence is to reduce the incidence and reoccurrence of domestic violence in society (Dutton, 2007). Domestic violence has been given a special status within the criminal justice system. In addition to a financial fine and/or incarceration, the batterer will often be placed in a special treatment program with the hope that counseling as opposed to mere deterrence by means of punishment will help to prevent recurrence. Unfortunately, the research on treatment efficacy for batterers has not been that encouraging. There have been a number of studies that have summarized the effects of batterers’ treatment (e.g., Babcock & LaTaillade, 2000). In nearly all of the reviews of the literature it is concluded that the short- and long-term effects of treatment on batterers were inconclusive or researchers have concluded that there are minimal decreases in recidivism rates between those that complete treatment and those receiving legal system interventions. For example in a meta-analysis of 22 studies comparing the Duluth model (According to this model the major cause of domestic violence is patriarchal ideology and the societal approval of men’s use of power and control over women. Group facilitators lead consciousness-raising exercises to challenge the male’s perception of his right to control and dominate his partner.), cognitive behavioral therapy, and other therapeutic interventions (e.g., couples therapy) on batterers versus legal sanctions. Effect sizes were small indicating poor treatment outcomes and not significantly different across different interventions (Babcock, Green, & Robie, 2004). Other similar comparisons have been equally discouraging (e.g., Dutton & Corvo, 2007; Feder & Wilson, 2005). Treatment for substance abuse and anger issues does not appear effective either.
Individual treatment for the children themselves does hold promise, especially cognitive behavioral treatments and supportive treatments. However, these treatments are less effective if the child is still being exposed to domestic violence (Babcock, Green, & Robie, 2004; Feder & Wilson, 2005). Standard procedures for treating children with the issue in question apply (e.g., depression or aggressive behavior), but with extra emphasis and building rapport, empathy, and not rushing things (Dutton & Corvo, 2007). Prevention through education is the best intervention for primary victims of domestic violence to help them recognize, understand, and decide whether to tolerate such behavior (Dutton, 2007).
Policy
Quite frankly a policy of no tolerance towards domestic violence should be accepted with batterers and threats of incarceration appear to be the best policy when dealing with batterers in domestic violence cases (Babcock, Green, & Robie, 2004). Education of the victim, providing that the victim develop and maintain a private escape plan, demanding honesty from clients, and continual supervision also appear to be important in treating victims of domestic violence. Moreover, every situation of domestic violence shares overall general factors but also is composed of individualized situational factors that are specific to the case. An overall policy for treatment should provide for the development of individualized interventions (Dutton, 2007).
Other Areas
When dealing with batterers and victims of domestic violence social workers need to contain their natural tendencies to be overly empathetic to batterers and primary victims. However, secondary victims such as children need specialized care and understanding. At the slightest sign of recidivism on the part of the batterer it is important for the social worker to assume child abuse and report it to the proper authorities. Since this strategy can interfere with the therapeutic relationship the boundaries and rules of treatment need to be explicitly explained and reviewed (Dutton, 2007).
Conclusions
Domestic violence is a serious issue that affects everyone in the family. Children who are exposed to domestic violence are at risk to develop a number of potential negative outcomes ranging from emotional to psychological to cognitive problems. Not all children exposed to domestic violence will develop problems, but it can be assumed that a fair number will and treatment can be helpful for the victims, but it still appears that legal interventions are most effective for the perpetrators. Thus, understanding what potential effects from exposure to violence can occur in secondary victims, treating them with understanding and care as well as and following strict rules with batterers and primary victims can help to reduce the tension and allow to design an individual program for families in need.
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