Treatment Philosophy

Two main approaches to conceptualizing the problem of abuse of women in relationships have developed over the years and have merged to varying degrees within individual programs. One approach views abuse of women in relationships as an anger management problem involving skill deficits remediated through cognitive-behavioral methods. The other approach arising from a feminist analysis focuses on the power and control motivation for abuse within a patriarchal system in which men are conditioned to dominate. This approach suggests a greater emphasis on changing sex role conditioning, promoting sexual equality and personal responsibility on the man's part for his violence. While the degree of emphasis may vary, most programs incorporate aspects of both approaches. Clearly, a pure anger management approach devoid of any sex role socialization content will be insufficient and may risk creating more sophisticated abusers. Similarly, an approach which focuses only on power/sex role issues while providing no skill acquisition would seem inadequate. Therefore, an incorporation of these two approaches into a hybrid model is recommended.

The task for counsellors of abusive men is to take a strong stand against the man's use of violence and power and control while at the same time being supportive of him as a person. Without a respectful approach there is a danger of alienating the man, reducing his willingness to accept ownership of his behaviour and his responsiveness to the counselling process.