Web resource:	http://lx.iriss.org.uk/sites/default/files/resources/Perpetrator%20programmes.pdf
Type:	Journal Article
Title:	Perpetrator programmes for male domestic violence offenders : what do we know about effectiveness?Towards Effective Practice
Authors:	Wilson, Monica
Keywords:	Perpetrators;Perpetrator programs;Criminal justice responses;Community development;Peer education
Year:	2003
Publisher:	Criminal Justice Social Work Development Centre for Scotland
Citation:	Paper 4
Notes:	General Overview: This Scottish briefing paper examines issues in determining the effectiveness of perpetrator treatment programs, including the problems in comparing various different programs and cohorts and various approaches. The key elements considered in these programs for the paper are their quality; the broader system in which they are located, and the competency and commitment of their facilitators. Discussion: The paper divides programs into those developed usually by community activists and practitioners rather than governments, those developed in criminal justice systems as part of probation programs, and those developed in the non-governmental organisation sector, which take referrals from other agencies as well as from men themselves. Defining what works: The authors argue that methodological differences hamper comparisons of evaluative research; for example, in terms of definitions of success, problems in sources of data, differences in follow-up periods and research design. In this research, the authors have tried to measure change, not just in terms of physical assault but as a “constellation of violence”. They found pro-feminist, cognitive-behavioural type programs are more likely than others to succeed. Effectiveness of programs: Men’s violent behaviour is founded in their expectations of authority and rights in a relationship, as well as the physical, sexual and psychologically nature of the abuse, and programs need to acknowledge this. They need to recognise that change takes place slowly and examine how much treatment is necessary. The Duluth program has increased its length from 24 weeks to two years, which is reflected in other programs cited. The authors argue successful programs are structured and accountable with clear inter-agency protocols, have parallel women’s services and evaluate their practices. Program context: The authors refer to Edward Gondolf’s evaluation studies of four programs, using a ‘naturalistic comparison’ of intervention systems. He found that outcomes for different programs in different sites were quite similar and seemed to be influenced by how well the police, courts, probation, women’s services and other community services work together. The critical feature was the system in which programs operated. Gondolf’s work reflects the general view that intervention programs are just one aspect of addressing domestic violence, with women’s and children’s safety always taking priority and an emphasis on prevention through wider social change. Program delivery: The authors argue that the qualities of individual therapists are more important in effecting change than the programs they employ. Therefore, programs must address facilitator competence early on and provide a special code of practice underpinning intervention work. Current developments: The paper refers to the ‘Scottish National Strategy To Address Domestic Abuse’, which seeks to promote a coordinated approach to domestic violence. The authors argue ways must be found to target abusers, other than through the criminal justice system. Coordinated programs and quality of facilitators are critical features, which are being promoted through the accreditation of programs. Different groups of men also need to be catered for, particularly the treatment of those that are assessed as unsuitable for programs. Conclusion: The authors conclude we cannot measure program effectiveness in isolation but must look at the system in which it is developed and operates. They suggest comprehensive community responsiveness is the key.
URI:	https://anrows.intersearch.com.au/anrowsjspui/handle/1/16136
Physical description:	8p
Appears in Collections:	Journal Articles

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