Retention of Couples in Treatment of Intimate Partner Violence

Abstract

The treatment of choice for intimate partner violence (IPV) has been gender specific psychoeducational groups for offenders, but these groups have high drop out rates (Babcock & La Taillade, 2000). An alternative therapy available for the treatment of IPV is couple therapy. The current study explored variables predictive of couple retention in a treatment outcome study designed to prevent IPV. Sixty-nine couples seeking therapy for mild-to-moderate levels of physical and psychological abuse in their relationship were included. Couples received one of two treatment protocols to address IPV, as part of the Couples Abuse Prevention Program (CAPP): (1) treatment as usual; and (2) cognitive behavioral therapy. Specific pre-treatment variables examined included relationship satisfaction, communication patterns, psychological and physical aggression, pre-treatment levels of psychopathology, and client and therapist perceptions of the efficacy of treatment. Findings regarding variables discriminating between treatment completers and non-completers, and clinical implications for treatment of IPV were discussed.