Probation domestic abuse programmes: a study of probation domestic abuse perpetrator programmes: interactive dynamics and personal perspectives

This thesis explores the group dynamics of two Probation domestic abuse perpetrator programmes; the Integrated Domestic Abuse Programme and Building Better Relationships, drawing on participant observation and semi structured interviews with participants and facilitators. It is argued that perpetrator programmes involve dynamic group interactions involving emotions, interpretation and the negotiation of collective understandings of gender and identity. These processes are central in the experiences of men who attend perpetrator programmes and those who deliver them. However, they are overlooked in academic and policy discussions, which tend to focus on programme design and measures of impact. The study suggests that men who are directed to attend domestic abuse perpetrator programmes initially perceive their attendance as a threat to their masculine identities. Consequently, they display resistance and hostility; challenging the legitimacy of their referral. However, as the programmes progress members display increasingly positive orientations. They create bonds through collective emotions and shared understandings, expressed through affection, support and humour. The research suggests that emotions are key in understanding the development, expression and impact of perpetrator group experiences. Men’s accounts show that the processes within the groups; specifically, the support provided by other participants and facilitators; enables a critical reflection of past behaviours, relationships and gendered identities. This calls for a greater consideration of ‘how’ interventions are delivered, and how environments that foster change can be enhanced