Citation

Dankwort J, Austin J. Can. J. Commun. Ment. Health 1999; 18(1): 19-38.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1999, Wifrid Laurier University Press)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

10847983

Abstract

This article reports on the growing trend of setting standards for intervention with batterers. All existing Canadian standards for batterer intervention programs (BIPs) are examined, including a discussion on how they came into effect and any controversy associated with their development. A brief background of the battering intervention field and the growth of BIP standards in North America is provided, followed by a description of the types and content of Canadian standards. Compliance with standards were mandatory in two regions and voluntary in three others. Two more regions had standards in a draft stage of development. Elements of standards typically included directives on: general program goals; the protocol and procedures programs should follow, including counselling format; and program staff ethics and qualifications. The article concludes with a discussion of the findings and suggestions for improving standards.

Language: en