COGNITIVE-BEHAVIORAL GROUP TREATMENT FOR MALE SPOUSE ABUSERS

Two studies evaluating cognitive-behavioral treatment programs for male spouse abusers are reported. 3 Both programs resulted in significant reductions in both indirect and direct threats of violence and direct and severe violence towards spouses. Study 1 identified reduced levels of guilt proneness and increased levels of group conformity as a result of the intervention program. In addition, changes in attitudes toward love were noted from pre- to post-test indicating greater physical attraction, intensity of emotion, and commitment to the lover. Changes were maintained at a six month follow-up. Study 2 evaluated a modified cognitive-behavioral treatment format that focused more on communication, problem-solving, and sexual attitudes and practices. All levels of violence were significantly reduced and changes in endorsement of sexual attitudes were noted. In addition, males showed lower levels of passive-aggressiveness and increasing levels of narcissism as a function of treatment. Implications for program development and research are discussed.