Sponsor
Portland State University. Department of Criminology & Criminal Justice
First Advisor
Danielle McGurrin
Term of Graduation
Spring 2024
Date of Publication
7-3-2024
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science (M.S.) in Criminology and Criminal Justice
Department
Criminology and Criminal Justice
Language
English
Subjects
Batterer Intervention Program (BIP), Domestic Violence Intervention, Mixed Methods, Perpetrator Rehabilitation, Program Evaluation, Qualitative Research
Physical Description
1 online resource (iii, 97 pages)
Abstract
This thesis examines the Allies in Change batterer intervention program, analyzing its curriculum components, alignment with evidence-based practices, unique features, limitations, and implications for domestic violence intervention. The study employs a qualitative mixed-methods approach, including curriculum textual analysis, word frequency count, a semi-structured interview with Chris Huffine, the curriculum author and program founder, and observation of a forty-hour domestic violence training provided for batterer intervention programs and facilitators.
The research begins by reviewing the literature on domestic violence intervention, highlighting the importance of evidence-based practices, cognitive behavioral techniques, and cultural responsiveness. It then conducts a textual analysis of the Allies in Change curriculum, focusing on key themes such as self-care, core beliefs, emotional regulation, accountability, and peer support. The study reveals the program’s strong alignment with current best practices, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and trauma-informed approaches.
Distinctive features of the Allies in Change program include its nuanced approach to support provision, integration of collateral information, emphasis on group maturity and peer support dynamics, required reading material, and dedicated LGBTQ+ group. These elements enhance the program's effectiveness and cultural responsiveness, catering to the diverse needs of participants.
However, limitations such as the absence of culturally specific groups beyond LGBTQ+ groups and the fee-based structure may hinder accessibility for marginalized individuals. Addressing these limitations is essential to improve inclusivity and effectiveness.
Recommendations for future research include longitudinal evaluations of program outcomes and innovative methods to enhance participant engagement and cultural inclusion. Implications for practice, policy, and research underscore the importance of evidence-based approaches, participant empowerment, and cultural responsiveness in domestic violence intervention.
This thesis provides valuable insights into the Allies in Change program, highlighting its strengths, unique features, limitations, and implications for addressing domestic violence. By leveraging evidence-based practices and promoting participant empowerment, interventions like Allies in Change can contribute significantly to preventing and mitigating domestic violence within communities.
Rights
In Copyright. URI: http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/ This Item is protected by copyright and/or related rights. You are free to use this Item in any way that is permitted by the copyright and related rights legislation that applies to your use. For other uses you need to obtain permission from the rights-holder(s).
Persistent Identifier
https://archives.pdx.edu/ds/psu/42362
Recommended Citation
Conner, Julie Melissa, "Exploring Evidentiary Approaches and Reform Potential in the Allies in Change Program for Abusive Intimate Partners" (2024). Dissertations and Theses. Paper 6662.