Development of a Christian-based intervention programme for perpetrators of intimate partner violence

Abstract

Intimate partner violence is a global evil and has reached pandemic proportions with ramifications that are devastating for all parties concerned. Characteristics and causal influences that were applicable to both abusive men and abusive women were identified in order to develop and streamline a treatment according to the evidence. It was purported that therapeutic change necessitates taking responsibility. Moreover, an activated conscience with concomitant empathy is pivotal in deterring partner abuse. Effective treatment strategies need to address issues such as factors that influence the resistance to change, trauma, alcohol abuse, possible biological correlates of violence, personality disturbance and emotional lability which seems to be activated within the context of an intimate relationship. Abusive partners need to reflect upon the possible association between external triggers and personal experiences that may influence destructive behavioural patterns. The developed programme emphasised self-compassion and forgiveness, which is conducive to bolstering self-esteem, feelings of worthiness and self-regulation. In pursuit thereof, an integrated bio-psycho-sociospiritual and developmental conceptualisation of intimate partner violence was supported and challenged the prevailing gender paradigm that still forms the basis of the predominant treatment interventions that are based on the Duluth model. The research approach adopted was that of mixed methods. The research project focused on intervention or action research and entailed designing and developing an innovative genderinclusive Christian-based programme for perpetrators of intimate partner violence. A series of activities ensued, which included a collective case study, piloting, refining and finalising the preliminary draft intervention. There is a high correlation between male and female perpetration and depression. Upon completion of the intervention programme, the participants’ reduced scores for depression were statistically significant, and as a result, it could be inferred that the programme has the potential to curtail intimate partner abuse. Recommendations included that children from abusive homes who remain largely conceptualised as “witnesses” rather than “victims” must form part of a treatment strategy. Children do not witness partner abuse passively from a distance but deeply feel and experience the aftermath. A comprehensive and integrated model of prevention is postulated that necessitates multiple services, such as screening for abuse during pregnancy and substance abuse programmes, in conjunction with a family, community and church response towards the eradication of violence towards women, men and children.