Predictors of Session Attendance in Intimate Partner Violence Treatment for Trauma-Exposed Veterans

Abstract

Understanding factors associated with intimate partner violence (IPV) treatment attendance is of particular importance given high rates of attrition from IPV counseling programs. Individuals who drop out from IPV counseling remain at an increased risk for recidivism. Although numerous studies have examined correlates of IPV treatment completion in civilian samples, no study to date has examined IPV treatment attendance in veterans. Thus, we sought to examine demographic, military, and diagnostic correlates of IPV session attendance in Veterans seeking IPV treatment. The current study examined data from 135 veterans presenting to IPV treatment within the Veteran Affairs (VA) healthcare system. Analyses were conducted from data collected as part of a randomized controlled trial evaluating the efficacy of a 12-session trauma-informed IPV intervention with veterans, Strength at Home. Results indicated that age, courtinvolvement, treatment condition, and substance use disorder were unique predictors of IPV session attendance above and beyond other demographic, military, and diagnostic predictors. Substance use disorder emerged as the most robust predictor of session attendance. These findings suggest that similar to civilian studies, routine assessment of substance use is indicated in IPV programs delivered within the VA healthcare system and that coordinated care between substance abuse and IPV treatment is needed. Our findings also suggest the need for additional efforts to enhance treatment initiation and retention among younger veterans.