A multimodal approach to reduce attrition, recidivism, and denial in abuser intervention programs

This study presents findings from a community-based organization (CBO) intimate partner abuser intervention pilot project. The project demonstrated outcomes for high program retention, low recidivism for new domestic-violence arrests, and discernible cognitive change in reductions of denial and increased acceptance of personal responsibility for acts of interpersonal abuse. Thirty-two participants of the cohort (N = 47) finished the 52-week program. Thirty-months post-intake revealed one program completer was arrested for new domestic violence charges. During that same time frame, five of the fifteen non-completers were rearrested for new domestic violence charges. The program used a 52-session multimodal curriculum designed with evidence-based clinical interventions, adult learning strategies, and Risk/Needs/Responsivity (RNR) principles. The CBO received funding from a private Christian foundation to provide the classes free of charge to all participants who were either voluntary (N = 2) or mandated (N = 45). A repeated measurement design evaluated participant's cognitive changes and acceptance of personal responsibility at intake and 14-weeks after starting the program. Both victim and participant self-assessments of perceived cognitive change were obtained during and after program completion.