NCJ Number
149828
Date Published
1993
Length
28 pages
Annotation
This chapter summarizes current research efforts aimed at defining characteristics of male batterers, causes of spouse battering, and treatment options.
Abstract
Unfortunately, research to establish a profile of a typical male batterers has unearthed contradictions that have led experts to develop several typologies representing a diverse population of men who batter women. The one underlying commonality between types of batterers seems to be a belief system based on an egocentric perspective that holds one's needs and desires as primary. Even so-called deniers and admitters be similar in terms of their motivations for battering. While there are several macro-level theories of why men batter women, they often fail to explain why an individual may commit a violent act. Micro theories, on the other hand, show how individuals become violent and imply ways to prevent violence. These theories focus on the cycle of violence, the trigger model, and the wheel of control. Batterer programs try to emphasize anger management, skill building, and development of a profeminist perspective. Some treatment issues confronted by therapists include resistance and dropout, men's pain, and couples counseling. 1 note and 84 references