Evaluating the effect of group process and client variables in support groups for battered women

Although support groups for battered women are a widely used intervention, little research has been conducted on their efficacy. This article presents a rationale for support groups as the intervention of choice for assaulted women and describes the available research. This secondary analysis of outcome data from a previously published study of 76 women in 12 different support groups investigates the effects of various group process variables and client characteristics. The group variables selected for discussion include group size and attendance, whether participants completed the group as opposed to dropping out, and the number of group leaders (I or 2). Client characteristics include whether the client still resides with her assaultive partner recontracted versus first-time clients, and age. The results are discussed in light of their implications for developing and planning effective support groups for assaulted women.