Recommendations for design of a batterers intervention program for female offenders

Background: There is  a significant number of women being arrested for domestic violence and enrolled in batterer intervention programs (BIPs). These programs, which are based on a model of care designed for men, have been shown to be less effective for women, in terms of attrition and recidivism rates. By investigating women in BIPs as well as aspects of BIPs that are helpful or challenging, this study proposes recommendations for modification of existing BIP curricula to better suit women's needs.

Methods: 39 women enrolled in BIPs and four facilitators of BIPs participated in this pilot study. Mixed methods  were utilized in data collection. Quantitative data were reported previously. In-depth, individual semi-structured interviews with study participants yielded qualitative data. Constant comparative method was used to analyze interview data.

Results: The mean age of women in the sample was 30.62 (Range=20-56). Half of the sample was white women (46.2 %), followed closely by African American/black women (35.9 %). The majority of enrolled women had children (71.8%). Recommendations for curriculum modification include: promoting skills for coping with past victimization in intimate relationships, addressing issues of abuse in childhood, providing opportunities for individual sessions, teaching how to better manage emotions and communication skills, developing learning exercises requiring active participation of the entire class and addressing barriers such as transportation, class timing, cost and childcare where possible.

Conclusion: The characteristics of women and men in BIPs are different. Female offenders may benefit more from BIPs if the curriculum is modified to suit their needs.