Pattern Changing for Abused Women: An Educational Program

• NCJ Number: 152563
• Author(s): M S Goodman; B C Fallon
• Date Published: 1995
• Length: 360 pages
• Sale Source: Sage Publications, Inc
• Publication Type: Curriculum
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America
• Note: Interpersonal Violence: The Practice Series.

Annotation

Pattern Changing is a program designed for abused women who have already moved through the initial stages of crisis intervention, have participated in support groups or counseling, have addressed the issue of keeping themselves and their children safe, and are ready to contemplate ways to actively make changes in their lives.

Abstract

The group experience is a critical factor in the success of Pattern Changing, as it allows abused women to meet other women in the same situation and relieves their feelings of total isolation. However, the program is not a replacement for group therapy. The 15 sessions of the program are outlined in this manual and supplement, and are designed for use by group leaders. The sessions deal with topics related to women's and victims' rights, family roles, the effects of a dysfunctional childhood, boundaries and how to change life patterns, grief and guilt feelings, assertiveness skills, how to set realistic goals, decisionmaking, and healthy relationships.