NCJ Number
106216
Journal
Journal of Family Violence Volume: 2 Issue: 2 Dated: (June 1987) Pages: 177-191
Date Published
1987
Length
15 pages
Annotation
Interviews were conducted with 12 reformed batterers from a men's counseling program to examine their perceptions of the abuse, treatment, and change.
Abstract
The men had all been nonviolent for 10 months or more at the time of the interview. The men explained the abuse in terms of a reaction to a sense of inadequacy associated with a failed macho self-image. Additional factors included abusiveness in their families of origin, an inability to confront emotions, and needs to control their wives. The men interpreted the counseling program as a reinforcement of their self-determination to change. They described the process in terms of personal growth, in which they accepted responsibility, became more empathetic, and redefined their manhood. Implications of reformed batterers' perceptions for program development are discussed. 41 references. (Author abstract modified)