Citation

Todahl JL, Walters E. J. Fem. Fam. Ther. 2009; 21(4): 247-270.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2009, Informa - Taylor and Francis Group)

DOI

10.1080/08952830903346022

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

In recent years researchers have examined the advantages and disadvantages of intimate partner violence (IPV) universal screening in medical settings. This article describes the IPV Screen and Assessment Tier (IPV-SAT), a model that adapts findings from the screening research literature for family therapy and family therapy settings. IPV-SAT provides a framework and a decision-making protocol for conducting an IPV screen, an IPV assessment, and an IPV danger assessment. This article outlines screening and assessment procedures, specific screening and assessment questions, and principles for responding to disclosures of violence. Important considerations for creating a safe context for screening and assessment, and strategies for handling confidentiality, particularly when working with couples from a systemic framework, are outlined. Implications for family therapy training and pressing research questions are described.