Motivating Batterers to Change in the Treatment Context

Abstract

Many treatment programs for domestic abuse perpetrators rely on consistent, direct, and often intense confrontation of defenses. These interventions may unwittingly increase rather than decrease resistance and defensiveness and may reinforce the belief that relationships are based on coercive influence. Available research suggests that confrontational, hostile, and critical therapist behaviors limit treatment effectiveness and can harm vulnerable clients. Conversely, a supportive and collaborative working alliance between therapist and client enhances treatment effects. Supportive strategies are available to increase motivation to change in resistant clients. These techniques rely on a comprehensive model of the change process and match therapist interventions to the client's readiness for change.