Experiences of victims and perpetrators of domestic violence with the temporary restraining order

In 2009, the Netherlands introduced temporary restraining order (TROs) that can be issued in the event of domestic violence perpetrated by adults to defuse dangerous situations and to reduce recidivism. Two important aspects of the TRO bill are that it combines a legal measure with action by social services and that professionals, rather than the victims themselves, can seek a TRO even before a criminal offense has been committed. This study focuses on how these TROs and related care are perceived by victims and perpetrators, and on the influence the TRO had on their lives. Eighteen victims and ten perpetrators who had been issued with TROs (20 cases) were interviewed about their experiences with the order, their experience and acceptance of the related professional help, and the influence of the order on their lives. The interviews were transcribed verbatim and subsequently analyzed by going through multiple stages (coding according to topic list, adding new codes based on transcripts, further organization of codes). Most of the victims were positive about the TRO period, while the perpetrators were less positive. The vast majority of respondents had accepted professional help during the TRO period and was positive about the professionals' attitudes. After their TROs had expired, a substantial proportion of respondents had continued to accept and receive professional help. Most reported an increase in their well-being, new insights, and less recidivism. The results show that in the short term, TROs have a mainly positive effect.