Domestic Violence

Domestic violence is highly prevalent both withinAustralia and internationally. Many interventionprogrammes for men who engage in domestic violenceare available however there is a lack of consensusas to which approach is most effective. This bookprovides an outline of the current treatment optionsand more specifically looks at a unique approach thatis available within Australia called BreathingSpace. Breathing Space is a therapeutic communitythat offers a multi-systemic best-practice treatmentapproach for men who engage in domestic violence.This qualitative programme evaluation of theprocesses used within Breathing Space comprised ofobservations and interviews with residents and staff.Findings indicated that Breathing Space provided anumber of benefits to residents however confidencethat treatment would reduce violence was low.Suggested improvements included strengtheningprofessional boundaries improved screening ofresidents compulsory attendance at group therapyand a greater focus on criminogenic needs. This bookshould be especially useful to those establishingmanaging or working within a treatment centre for menwho engage in domestic violence.