NCJ Number
96962
Date Published
1985
Length
222 pages
Annotation
This book presents strategies and techniques for treating men who batter women, research findings pertaining to causes of wife abuse, and suggestions for social action designed to prevent wife abuse.
Abstract
Because wife abuse is a social problem deeply rooted< in social, cultural, economic, and political factors that sanction violence and the subjugation of women, an integrated approach is recommended. Programs suggested for men who batter incorporate mental health support, adjunct shelters, and supervised self-help programs. A review of wife abuse research examines issues of men's liberation, such as malignant masculinity and male-female sex roles. Five profiles of abusers illustrate the importance of treatment by trained and caring staff. The counseling process, from initial phone contact through the introductory interview and group work, is reviewed. Problem areas such as withholding, denial, blaming, depression, and dropping out are examined. Through appropriate counseling, it is believed men who abuse their wives may learn to accept responsibility, avoid violent behavior, reduce stress, communicate their feelings, and undo sex role stereotypes. Social change is seen to occur only through improvements in social services, professional education, and public awareness and education. Building coalitions between the sexes and between minority and majority groups as well as a movement toward the 'new man' are also recommended. Appended resources include lists of books on wife abuse and men's roles, films, self-help books, manuals from programs for men who batter, periodicals and programs for men who batter, and 219 references.