Family violence intervention: Success with juvenile perpetrators

Background/Purpose: Juveniles are rarely viewed and studied as perpetrators of domestic violence. Juvenile perpetrators of domestic violence present a set of unique issues and problems yet the literature is sparse with research on effective community interventions. A unique program was initiated in King County, Washington to respond to the families with juveniles adjudicated in the court system for violence against a parent/guardian. The program was replicated with nearly identical results in Lucas County, Ohio.

Methods: The STEP-UP program is a 21 week group intervention with juvenile perpetrators who have been physically and emotionally abusive towards their parent or guardian. This unique approach recognizes that the treatment must include both the adolescent and the parent/guardian. Parents and teens learn empathy, accountability, and effective problem solving.

Results reveal that both youth and parent/guardians rate a significant reduction in physical, verbal, and emotional abuse by the former juvenile perpetrator. The number of subsequent domestic violence charges filed in juvenile court is drastically reduced in graduates of the program. Nearly 100% of participants complete the program

Conclusion: This presentation will provide practical solutions and tools that include assessments, evaluations, safety plans, respectful communication tools, and other elements of a community intervention for juvenile perpetrators and their parents/guardians. The STEP-UP program requires that both the adolescent and parent/guardian learn, practice, and demonstrate techniques and tools presented in the group process with the goal of reducing violence and abuse in the home. Barriers of implementation as well as cost benefits will also be discussed.