Exploring an understanding for the person committing domestic violence

Abstract

Domestic violence is defined by the World Health Organization (WHO) as “any behavior within an intimate relationship that causes physical, sexual or psychological harm” (2013). Blijf Groep is one of the organizations in the Netherlands that concerns itself with the subject of domestic violence.

Whilst social, environmental, family, and individual influences play a role in the creation of unintentional partner violence. In particular, gender inequality, experiencing stress, or touching upon vulnerable feelings can trigger starting domestic violence. The dynamic that develops can lead to a vicious cycle that perpetuates violence. Because domestic violence is an interaction between two people and often there is no clear identification of a victim or a perpetrator, this thesis refers to those involved as ‘the person who experiences domestic violence’ and ‘the person who commits domestic violence’. When one of the people involved reaches out to Blijf Groep, the social workers mainly focus on them because they are seen as the one who has experienced the most severe violence. The needs of the person who committed domestic violence are not considered as much. The social workers have little understanding of them, and therefore, they are not included in the counseling process.

The central aim of this research has been to explore an understanding of the person who commits domestic violence since, for a lasting solution to domestic violence, they have to be included in the counseling process.

This research was divided into a theoretical study, qualitative context research, and an exploratory study with methods including interviews, quick prototyping, and user tests. In addition, the course of a violent relationship and the counseling process at Blijf Groep were mapped. This research led to the insight that the initial phone call between the residential social worker and the person who committed domestic violence can be an entrance. The phone call takes place at a vulnerable time in which both involved are most open to receiving help and can be the starting point for the rest of the counseling process.

Based on the insights of this research, a workshop for social workers was designed which consists of a workbook and twelve theme cards. The purpose of the workbook is to allow social workers to reflect on themselves and their work so they become aware of the origins of incomprehension for the person who committed domestic violence and how these affect their involvement in counseling. For support during the counseling process, the theme cards contribute to solution-focused work by providing knowledge about the background of the person who committed domestic violence, with accompanying questions that can create an entry point for conversations. Besides, it helps social workers to chart the origins and persistence of violence.

Finally, the workshop has been evaluated with social workers. The design succeeded in creating an understanding during the first phone call. Therefore, it is proposed that the workshop should be included in mandatory training at Blijf Groep so the social workers learn how to work systemically from the start.