Domestic violence perpetrator programmes in Ireland - Intervention required!

Domestic violence is a destructive social harm which damages the lives and well-being of an immeasurable number of people and families. Traditional legal responses have sought to protect victims through a range of supports and protective measures including the removal of the abuser from the oft-shared residence. However, by its very nature domestic abuse typically occurs in a private home environment, one that is often not easily accessed. This article identifies the merits of state intervention measures which seek to challenge the perpetrator, seeking behavioural change through engagement and direction. The growing national and international move towards adopting targeted programmes will be outlined, as will the current evidence-based positive evaluations of a number of existing domestic violence perpetrator programmes. Against this backdrop, the under-developed Irish framework will be critically considered, informed by the results of the recent data gathered through workshop-based engagement with male perpetrators engaging with an Irish service provider. Ultimately the need for greater investment in such programmes will be demonstrated, in order to more comprehensively and effectively address the scourge of domestic violence.