NCJ Number
224699
Journal
Violence Against Women Volume: 14 Issue: 11 Dated: November 2008 Pages: 1313-1325
Date Published
November 2008
Length
13 pages
Annotation
This article describes key lessons learned through planning and implementation of domestic violence programs at a supervised visitation center (SVC).
Abstract
Supervised visitation programs have developed rapidly across the United States. The services offered in these programs can include child exchange, off-site supervision, telephone contact, multifamily group visitation, one-on-one sessions, and therapeutic supervision. Findings revealed five major themes which emerged during an 18 month planning and subsequent 18 month implementation of a SVC developed specifically to serve families for whom domestic violence was their primary reason for referral. Theses themes are: battered women do not always see SVCs as an ally for their safety; battering may continue in explicit and more subtle ways, even during supervised visitation; clear, consistent, and documented communications from the beginning of contact with all parties is essential when working with domestic violence perpetrators; the importance of well-trained visit monitors sensitive to the issues of domestic violence and strategies of perpetrators are the critical component of success for SVCs working with families; and successful SVCs must be a part of a larger, coordinated community response to domestic violence that allows battered mothers, their children, and violent fathers to access the array of services and interventions necessary to achieve safe families. References