The purpose of the project is to compare two Batterers Intervention Programs (BIPs) in a randomized controlled trial. Although the goal of BIPs is to reduce domestic violence and hold the participants accountable, traditional BIPs such as the Duluth Model have minimal impact on domestic assault re-offense. There is an urgent need for more research to guide BIP innovation and for evaluation of new approaches. In addition, due to the lack of scientific evaluations of the mechanisms of BIP success, the question of how and why these treatments work remains unanswered. Dr. Zarling and her team developed the Achieving Change Through Valued Based Behavior (ACTV) and it has been implemented across the state of Iowa.
This study is taking place in the 5th judicial district department of correctional services (DOC) in Iowa. The PI has an ongoing partnership with the DOC and has successfully completed research and practice collaborations with the 5th judicial district. Subjects include over 300 men court-mandated to complete BIP who will be randomized to either ACTV or Duluth. Self-report data is collected at pre-, mid-, and post-treatment to assess changes that occur during treatment that may impact outcomes. To measure treatment outcomes, data from victims, as well as official criminal charges, are being obtained. The primary outcomes of interest will be aggressive and controlling behaviors (as reported by victims) and domestic assault recidivism (as indicated by criminal charges) in the year after BIP participation.