This presentation will discuss how the field of domestic violence has evolved over the years to adapt to changing health, economic, and demographic trends in the community. For the past 15 years, the Domestic Violence Program at a local Health Department has targeted male batterers who are court-ordered, as well as voluntary participants. The approach is multi-disciplinary and is intended to move the batterer from a position of power and control in a relationship to a position of equality in a relationship. Interventions include lectures, role-play, videos, audiotapes of "911" calls, and group sharing. Issues of coexistence in a diverse society with its myriad belief systems and public health concerns, along with alcohol/drug usage, child abuse, responsible parenting, and gender bias are a part of the 52-week program, which is privately funded through fees paid by those who attend. The goal of the program is to challenge belief systems and to teach nonviolent ways of communicating and resolving conflict. Domestic violence has become a major public health issue and is increasingly impacting the workplace. The need to develop an organizational support system, statistics on domestic violence incidents in the workplace, and an evaluation of the batterer's treatment program will be addressed.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the presentation, participants will be able to: 1. Identify the cycle of violence 2. Articulate 5 characteristics of an abusive relationship 3. Recognize potential for violence in the workplace
Keywords: Accountability, Violence Prevention
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.