The experiences of women whose partners participate in a men for non violence programme

Abstract

The results of a small-scale study are reported in which the experiences of women whose partners participated in a programme for violent men were examined. An outline of definitions, incidence and history of response to domestic violence is provided. Previous evaluations of men's violence programmes are reviewed and methodological issues in conducting evaluations of men's violence programmes are discussed. These include the most appropriate source of data (course participants vs partners); multiple methods; the advantages and disadvantages of interviewing and checklists; adequate follow-up time; definitions of success; and ethical and political considerations. Nine women were interviewed at the beginning of the course, at the end of the course, and four to six months following course completion. Interviews were in-depth and qualitative, and respondents also completed checklists at the time of each interview in which they rated the frequency of occurrence of various types of abuse. Key difficulties in the study included obtaining a large enough sample and retaining the sample throughout the follow-up period. The study found a range of outcomes for the women following the course, with some men making significant improvements, others continuing both physical and non-physical abuse, and some developing new tactics. Procedural aspects of the programme as they affect partners of course participants are also examined, including partner check-ins, women's learning groups and court referrals, and are discussed in the context of an interagency approach to intervention in family violence. The women interviewed expressed concern that their views did not seem to be taken into account in the running of the programme. The study recommends that greater priority be given to ensuring partners are adequately informed about the programme and that attention be given to incorporating feedback from women into the course. Ongoing monitoring and evaluation based on the perspective of partners of course participants are also recommended.