Citation

Bowen EL. Partner Abuse 2010; 1(1): 105-116.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2010, Springer Publishing)

DOI

10.1891/1946-6560.1.1.105

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Significant debate exists in the field about when to respond and how best to intervene when partner violence has occurred. This case study tells the story of a woman who was arrested for partner violence and was court-ordered to a 52-week treatment program. Her childhood was one of ongoing trauma, abuse, and abandonment. As an adult, all of her adult intimate relationships included violence. She was sometimes the victim, sometimes the offender, and often both. The program she attended, NOVA Non-Violent Alternatives, uses a psychotherapeutic approach of cognitive-behavioral strategies grounded in attachment theory, trauma theory, and social learning theory. In addition to learning specific skills for emotional self-regulation, communication, and respectful relationships, clients examine the influences of their family of origin experiences—and how those shaped their beliefs about themselves, their intimate relationships, and how they get their emotional needs met—and share these insights in the group. Roxy's narrative illustrates the generational nature of family trauma and violence. Although despairing because of her ongoing problems, she would not have sought help on her own. It took the authority of the court to require her to get help and then to hold her accountable.