Citation

Maiden RP. Empl. Assist. Q. 1996; 11(3): 21-46.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1996, Informa - Taylor and Francis Group)

DOI

10.1300/J022v11n03_02

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

This study examined incidence of domestic violence by assistance program (EAP) clients referred for alcoholism treatment. The intent was to determine if alcoholics were engaged in domestic violence before treatment, the extent to which violence is curtailed after intervention and whether select factors during treatment and early recovery contribute to reducing domestic violence. The Conflict Tactics Scale (Straus, 1979) was used to measure incidence of domestic violence before and after treatment. Ninety-four percent of respondents had engaged in behavior ranging from verbal intimidation to severe physical aggression prior to intervention. Moderate physical aggression and verbal intimidation continued to be reported after intervention. Regular attendance at Alcoholics Anonymous and frequent sponsor contact were statistically significant in reducing domestic violence. Post-intervention domestic violence suggests a continued pattern of violence but with less frequency and severity.