An evaluation of crisis intervention techniques in domestic violence, 1989

This study evaluated the effectiveness of using crisis intervention techniques in domestic violence. The methodology used to assess and evaluate the effectiveness was based on a single-subject research design. Five cases were evaluated from the researcher's caseload in the Family Crisis Team as referred by the Domestic Crisis Intervention Unit of Families First. A critical incident report and four other scales (Generalized Contentment Scale, Index of Self-Esteem, Index of Family Relations, and Index of Marital Satisfaction) were utilized in the assessment and treatment process. The scales were administered after each session with the client and a critical incident report was completed by the researcher after each session. Results of the study indicated that crisis intervention techniques were effective and demonstrated the appropriateness of crisis intervention treatment in cases of domestic violence. The study noted the importance of involving the client in the assessment and goal setting process. Treatment methods within the realm of the crisis intervention techniques that were found to be successful included anger control training, communication skills training, problem solving skills training and education regarding safety issues. This study also noted the value and ease of practice-based research and its importance to the field of social work