NCJ Number
97074
Journal
International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology Volume: 28 Issue: 3 Dated: (1984) Pages: 223-239
Date Published
1984
Length
13 pages
Annotation
This article describes the Domestic Abuse Project (DAP) in Minneapolis, with attention to the first phase of its two-stage program for male abusers -- 8-week group sessions that focus on learning alternatives to aggressive behavior.
Abstract
DAP maintains that the perpetrator is solely responsible for the violence. Phase one consists of two separate groups for men and women. Phase two includes 16 weeks of separate counseling groups plus the opportunities for other counseling modalities. DAP's intervention is based on the theory that domestic violence has three phases: escalation, explosion, and the 'honeymoon.' It contends that the most effective point of intervention is the escalation phase. DAP strongly encourages a separation policy during phase one. It does not accept men with untreated chemical dependency or serious men with untreated chemical dependency or serious psychopathology. Between September 1981 and August 1982, 88 men attended phase one. Most were white, but ages, income levels, and occupations varied widely. Approximately 30 percent were court ordered. DAP first gathers demographic data and information on the patterns and extent of violence and develops a tentative plan for control. Phase one groups meet twice a week for 2.5 hours for 15 sessions. Each includes a structured exercise and time for discussing members' concerns. The article outlines the material covered in each session. Areas considered include cues to violence, laws on domestic violence, the cycle of violence, control skills, muscle relaxation techniques, and male and female stereotypes. The article provides 22 references.