Predictors of Underreporting of Male Violence by Batterer Program Participants and Their Partners

• NCJ Number: 186401
• Journal: Journal of Family Violence Volume: 15 Issue: 4 Dated: December 2000 Pages: 423-443
• Author(s): D. Alex Heckert; Edward W. Gondolf
• Editor(s): Vincent B. Van Hasselt, Michel Hersen
• Date Published: 2000
• Length: 21 pages
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Report (Study/Research)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

The authors developed prediction equations of underreporting on the Conflict Tactics Scale using a multi-site data base of 840 men admitted to batterer programs in Pittsburgh, Dallas, Houston, and Denver and their female partners.

Abstract

The authors first used variables measured at program intake to predict female and male underreporting of male violence at program intake. The authors then used variables measured at program intake, as well as measures of program participation, to predict male-female disagreement (male underreporting) at 12-month follow-up. Several variables predicted underreporting, both at intake and at follow-up, but overall prediction was only marginally better than chance. Findings suggest men and women underreport violence based on situational factors such as relationship characteristics and on rational reasons rather than based on personality traits or social desirability. The ability to predict underreporting, however, is too weak for adjustment of self-reports by clinicians and program evaluators. 35 references and 2 tables