Factors involved in assessment of the effectiveness of batterer Intervention programs

Abstract

Despite the increase in popularity of batterer intervention programs, the overall effectiveness of these programs is difficult to define and measure (Scott, 2000). Domestic violence advocates argue that these programs divert the limited funds available away from helping victims and often place women in increased danger. It is important to gain a better understanding about the factors involved in the evaluation of batterer programs to increase victims' safety and increase the likelihood that batterers will receive the treatment needed. There are numerous variables that contribute to the difficulty in assessing the effectiveness of these programs. These differences make it very difficult for therapists, advocates and clients to have a clear understanding of which intervention method is most effective. This paper will focus on the difficulty in evaluating the effectiveness of the various treatments for domestic violence.