Which battering interventions work? An updated meta-analytic review of intimate partner violence treatment outcome research

Abstract

This meta-analytic review updates previous research on the effectiveness of batterer intervention programs (BIPs), incorporating findings from 59 controlled outcome studies evaluating treatment efficacy for men and women who use violence in intimate relationships. The study compares the impact of various interventions, including the Duluth model, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), and emerging approaches such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Circles of Peace, on recidivism rates. <br><br> Findings indicate that while effect sizes remain small overall, novel interventions demonstrate greater effectiveness than the Duluth curriculum. True experimental studies yield smaller effect sizes than quasi-experimental studies, particularly when recidivism is measured through police or partner reports. However, new intervention models, when tested against the Duluth approach, show comparable effect sizes to studies comparing treatment groups with untreated control conditions. The report highlights the need for continued evaluation of treatment moderators and mechanisms of change, advocating for broader implementation of evidence-based interventions within the criminal justice system.