Abstract
This thesis presents and discusses the results of a qualitative analysis of recorded first therapy sessions with twelve domestically violent men. The sound recorded sessions are part of a larger research material with a sample of 192 clients from Alternativ til Vold» (ATV), and are applied in the therapeutic study of ATV (ATVT-study). The aim of the analysis was to examine how the men appeared regarding characteristic features considered relevant for therapy. Our methodological approach was Grounded theory. We found that the men expressed different reasons and motivations for seeking help. Avoidance of the violence as a theme for conversation as well as externalisation of responsibility was dominating tendencies. Most of the men spoke about, or had a behaviour that seemed to indicate, an insecure and easily threatened sense of self and experiences of powerlessness. Based on our observations we propose ways in which therapists can approach this group of clients. Unlike treatment programs that confront and challenge domestically violent men, this thesis emphasizes the importance of an empathic and non-judgemental therapy style. This does not mean that the therapist in any way should express approval of the violent behaviour. Rather, an empathic and non-judgemental way of interacting with the men seems essential in order to help them find their own motivation for changing and acknowledging responsibility, as well as to optimize the therapeutic relationship and the outcome. To avoid provoking shame that could keep the men from coming back, this is considered especially important in the initial phase of the therapy.
This thesis presents and discusses the results of a qualitative analysis of recorded first therapy sessions with twelve domestically violent men. The sound recorded sessions are part of a larger research material with a sample of 192 clients from Alternativ til Vold» (ATV), and are applied in the therapeutic study of ATV (ATVT-study). The aim of the analysis was to examine how the men appeared regarding characteristic features considered relevant for therapy. Our methodological approach was Grounded theory. We found that the men expressed different reasons and motivations for seeking help. Avoidance of the violence as a theme for conversation as well as externalisation of responsibility was dominating tendencies. Most of the men spoke about, or had a behaviour that seemed to indicate, an insecure and easily threatened sense of self and experiences of powerlessness. Based on our observations we propose ways in which therapists can approach this group of clients. Unlike treatment programs that confront and challenge domestically violent men, this thesis emphasizes the importance of an empathic and non-judgemental therapy style. This does not mean that the therapist in any way should express approval of the violent behaviour. Rather, an empathic and non-judgemental way of interacting with the men seems essential in order to help them find their own motivation for changing and acknowledging responsibility, as well as to optimize the therapeutic relationship and the outcome. To avoid provoking shame that could keep the men from coming back, this is considered especially important in the initial phase of the therapy.