Individual Versus Group Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for Partner-Violent Men: A Preliminary Randomized Trial

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Clinical Psychology
• Forensic Psychology

Background:

• Intimate partner violence (IPV) perpetrators require effective interventions.
• Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a common approach.
• Individualized (ICBT) vs. standardized group (GCBT) formats require comparison.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the efficacy of ICBT with motivational interviewing against standardized GCBT for IPV perpetrators.
• To assess the impact on abusive behaviors, relationship functioning, and cognitive distortions.

Main Methods:

• A randomized clinical trial with 42 male IPV perpetrators.
• Random assignment to 20 sessions of ICBT or a 20-week GCBT program.
• 1-year follow-up assessments of abuse, relationship functioning, and cognitive distortions.

Main Results:

• Higher treatment uptake and attendance in ICBT, but GCBT yielded equivalent or greater benefits.
• Participant self-reports showed reductions in abuse across both conditions.
• Victim partner reports indicated superior outcomes for GCBT, including reduced psychological aggression and physical assault.

Conclusions:

• Standardized GCBT may be more effective than ICBT for IPV perpetrators.
• Group dynamics, including mutual support and social influence, may contribute to GCBT's effectiveness.
• Challenges in ICBT administration may impact treatment outcomes.