Effective Assessment and Intervention: Techniques for Supporting Children, Adults, and Perpetrators of Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) and Family Violence (FV)
Assessment is the first step in gathering data from clients to develop an effective plan of action for the client's needs. When working with children, safety is a priority. For example, a biopsychosocial assessment can help identify social determinants that can help identify trauma, safety, and the impact of family violence (FV) on their well-being. Assessments can help identify emotional, psychological, and behavioral issues, such as developmental delays and attachment disorders, and provide a foundation for appropriate referrals such as child protective services (e.g., mandated reporting) or trauma counseling (Pabon, A., 2024).
Child-Focused Assessments and Referrals in Family Violence Cases
For adults, the role of assessment consists of also focusing on safety first, such as the immediate threat of violence and signs of controlling behavior, such as excessive jealousy, constant surveillance, or isolation from family and friends. Providing referrals to shelters or other community resources can be more effective with accurate assessments.
Messing, J. T. (2019). Risk-Informed Intervention: Using Intimate Partner Violence Risk Assessment within an Evidence-Based Practice Framework. Social Work, 64(2), 103–112.
According to Kylie Hogan, Director of Crisis Intervention Services at DC Safe, additional information/assessment when working with perpetrators might be motivation or risk assessment to determine the potential for ongoing violence and community safety. This includes using evidence-based methods to analyze the likelihood of re-offending and behavioral patterns, which inform treatment options such as mandatory counseling or incarceration. For example, the Lethality Assessment Program focuses on identifying high-risk clients, such as the presence of weapons, direct threats to kill, strangulation, or obsessive jealousy. DC Safe provides a model for working with perpetrators through a collaborative effort with law enforcement, behavioral health services, and housing authorities to provide support for high-risk clients (Children’s National Hospital., 2022, December 14, 29:58).
There is several additional information/assessment that is needed for perpetrators. For example, a review of the offender's past behavior, such as previous offenses, patterns of aggression, and any previous interventions. Understanding the type, frequency, and triggers of violent behavior can help determine if the perpetrator is willing to take responsibility for their actions or if they are minimizing or justifying their behavior. Additional information such as social determinants; family background, relationship history, motivation for change, and understanding the consequences of their actions can provide better outcomes towards rehabilitation. Assessment of perpetrators focuses on identifying the risk of future violent behavior, understanding the motivations behind the violence, and developing interventions that can reduce the likelihood of re-offense (Pabon, A., 2024).
Assessing Adults for Safety, Support Systems, and Psychological Impact
Assessments help case managers identify the psychological impact of abuse, such as PTSD, support systems of faith, family, and friends, or coping skills and the client's strengths. During the assessment process, there might be challenges, such as clients not disclosing abuse due to shame, fear, or being unable to recognize it, so direct tools like the Domestic Violence Safety Assessment tool can help determine risk (Beel, N., 2023, 'Summary' section, para 2). It is essential to understand the victim's coping mechanisms, which may include substance abuse or other maladaptive strategies as a means of self-medication. The information obtained during the assessment not only helps in formulating an appropriate response but also serves to validate the victim's experiences, creating a sense of trust and support (Women’s Advocates (n.d.)).
Gabby Petito Case and Recognizing Signs of Abuse (FV)
The Gabby Petito case is a grim reminder of the prevalence of domestic violence, with nearly 20 people per minute abused by an intimate partner in the U.S. Signs of abuse can include changes in behavior, unexplained injuries, and fear of the partner. It's crucial to approach victims sensitively, without blame, and to separate them from their abuser when possible. Developing a safety plan, including identifying safe places and preparing essential items, is vital for those in abusive situations. (ABC News., 2021, September 24).
Assessing Perpetrators: Motivation, Risk Factors, and Treatment
Comparing Child and Adult Assessments in Abuse Situations
Assessment for children and adult victims of abuse has several differences. For children, they may struggle to articulate their experiences or fear repercussions for speaking out, so there might be non-verbal cues, such as behavioral changes, emotional responses, and physical indicators like bruises or neglect. The assessment must also consider family dynamics, as children often feel dependent on their caregivers and may hesitate to disclose abuse. Emotional trauma, including anxiety and low self-esteem, can manifest differently in children than in adults. On the other hand, adult assessments generally involve more direct communication, as adults can articulate their experiences. However, they may still face challenges in disclosing abuse due to fear of retaliation or emotional manipulation. Assessments for adults must address the context of intimate partner violence, including power dynamics and psychological aggression, while also considering their support systems and any substance abuse issues (Smith, S., 2023, February 11, 08:05 - 13:02).
Recognizing and Responding to Coping Mechanisms in Children Exposed to Violence
This information that assists me with treatment planning for children exposed to family violence (FV) is coping mechanisms they may exhibit, such as maybe feeling fearful, hypervigilant, and may developing coping mechanisms such as trying to control the abuser's behavior, mental blocking, or retreating to a fantasy, self-harm, or seeking love and attention from unsafe individuals. This is why it's important to recognize these coping mechanisms during the assessment process (Child Safety Practice Manual., 2022, December 14). By creating a non-judgmental, safe, and supportive environment, I can establish trust and encourage further disclosure, which is essential for accurate assessment and intervention. Ensuring client safety helps protect individuals from potential harm. Thorough assessment allows for appropriate documentation and treatment while referrals to specialized services (e.g., child protective services, trauma care, mental health) facilitate ongoing support tailored to their needs (Sampsel, K. and Alnajar, M., 2020, July 20).
Essential Skills for Conducting Assessments in Abuse Cases
When conducting assessments in cases of abuse, several guiding principles and social work skills are essential. First, it is important to treat patients with dignity and respect, recognizing the complex challenges they face when considering leaving abusive relationships and the trauma associated with being in an abusive environment. Active listening allows for a comprehensive understanding of the victim's experiences. Crisis intervention skills provide immediate support and safety planning when necessary, and cultural sensitivity is vital for understanding the diverse backgrounds of victims. Advocacy is also essential in helping victims navigate complex systems and access necessary resources (Raveesh, B., Rai, S., Kaur, D., Bandyopadhyay, D., Gautam, A., Shetty, J., & Parmar, J., 2022).