NCJ Number
174208
Journal
Groupwork Volume: 9 Issue: 1 Dated: 1996 Pages: 27-47
Date Published
1996
Length
21 pages
Annotation
This article explores the range of theoretical models that are used as a basis for group counseling for men who abuse their female partners and former partners and discusses these models in terms of a feminist analysis of the abuse.
Abstract
The discussion notes that the crucial issue in seeking a satisfactory group work model for abusers' groups is the extent to which they must work with men's denial and minimization of their offenses and related abuse. This requires an approach that is confrontational in style and feminist in orientation. The three explanatory frameworks for group programs can be described as intra-individual, socio-psychological, and sociocultural or as psychoanalytical, social learning, and sociopolitical. The social level of explanation is the most important from a feminist perspective, but it is probably the hardest to translate into existing models of group work intervention with oppressor groups. Three problematic issues relating to the establishment and running of such groups are accountability to women, effectiveness, and resources. The analysis concludes that groups aimed at confronting and changing the behavior of men who abuse women are urgently needed. However, they should not be allowed to detract from work with women and children and should not be established without adequate consideration of the three problem areas presented in this analysis. 55 references (Author abstract modified)