Motivational interviewing as a pregroup intervention for partner-violent men

Abstract

This study examines the effectiveness of a pregroup motivational interviewing (MI) intervention for men participating in a domestic abuse treatment program. A total of 108 men presenting for treatment at a community-based domestic violence agency were randomly assigned to either a two-session MI intake or a structured intake (SI) control before being referred to a cognitive behavioural treatment (CBT) group. Findings indicate that men in the MI intake condition demonstrated more constructive in-session behaviour, greater engagement with homework assignments, and stronger therapeutic alliances in later sessions. Additionally, they exhibited higher rates of help-seeking outside of the program. However, no significant differences were found in overall session attendance, self-reported readiness to change, or working alliance ratings. Partner reports over a six-month follow-up period showed a marginal effect favouring MI in reducing physical assault. These findings suggest that motivational interviewing may enhance receptivity and engagement in partner violence interventions.