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Comprehensive Evaluation: A Holistic Approach to Evaluating Domestic Violence Offender Programmes

Postdoctoral Research Psychologist, Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children, Departent of Community-Based Medicine, University of Bristol, 24 Tyndall Avenue, Bristol, BS8 1TQ, England

Elizabeth Gilchrist

Principal Lecturer in Psychology, School of Health and Social Sciences, George Eliot Building, Coventry University, 4 Priory Street, Coventry, CV1 5FB, England

This article argues that the focus on behavioural outcomes in evaluations of domestic violence offender programmes has been too narrow, and that a more holistic approach incorporating investigation of the psychological characteristics of offenders and treatment characteristics may be required to determine what works, for whom, and under what circumstances. To this end, one interpretation of a comprehensive evaluation framework is outlined. The article hypothesises the insights to be gained by assessing the contribution of several potential mediating variables of the treatment process in the evaluation of these programmes. These variables are the heterogeneity of treatment targets in the target population; motivation to change; programme integrity variables; and therapeutic factors. The article concludes that only by implementing theoretically informed, multifaceted evaluations will we move closer to understanding the process of successful rehabilitation.

Key Words: batterer programme evaluation • spouse abuse • evaluation

International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology, Vol. 48, No. 2, 215-234 (2004)
DOI: 10.1177/0306624X03259471


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