NCJ Number
230232
Journal
Journal of Family Violence Volume: 25 Issue: 4 Dated: May 2010 Pages: 413-422
Date Published
May 2010
Length
10 pages
Annotation
This study explored the existence of patterns in help-seeking behaviors of male perpetrators of domestic violence.
Abstract
The present study investigated effective strategies for engaging abusive men and preventing the reoccurrence or escalation of violence against women. Seventy-three men solicited from a community program for male batterers completed a questionnaire regarding help-seeking behaviors. Of these participants, 12 participated in subsequent focus group discussions. Approximately two-thirds of the participants identified they had sought help regarding the problems in their intimate relationships; however, only half of them actually received help that addressed their violent behaviors. Furthermore, of those participants who received help, only one-quarter found the help to be useful or effective. When reviewing both the questionnaire responses and focus group transcripts, several help-seeking themes emerged from the data including numerous missed opportunities to intervene, men's view of masculinity and help-seeking, and the critical role of developing trust, non-judgmental and confidential counseling relationships. The results have implications for both public education campaigns and training of professionals to address domestic violence issues in male clients. Tables, appendixes, and references (Published Abstract)