Case Study: Intimate Partner Violence
Domestic Violence Case 1
Stephanie is a 28-year-old stay-at-home mother with two daughters, aged 6 and 8. She
has been
married to Shawn for the past twelve years, but their relationship has been marked by
extreme physical and emotional abuse. Shawn, who is 40 years old, has been physically
violent towards Stephanie, often resorting to beating, cuffing, and banging her against the wall and calling her names, such as stupid and dotish, when he is upset. Despite the
abuse, he would then try to reconcile by showering her with flowers and gifts, professing
his love and care for her. This cycle of abuse and apology has left Stephanie feeling
trapped and ashamed. Her own childhood experiences contribute to her internal struggle, as she witnessed her father mistreat her mother.
In contrast, her mother blamed herself for the abuse, believing it was a twisted display of
love. Stephanie has gone to great lengths to hide the truth from her friends and neighbours, putting on a facade of a happy, loving family. However, deep down, she worries about
her two daughters, fearing that they might fall victim to the same cycle of abuse that she
experienced, as well as her financial situation if she should leave the relationship. Gazing at her badly bruised face in the mirror, Stephanie realizes the urgent need to break the cycle of abuse for the sake of her daughters. Determined to protect her children from
experiencing the same pain she endured, Stephanie gathered the courage and reached
out for assistance from the Coalition Against Domestic Violence. She understands the
serious risk involved, but the thought of her two daughters living under the shadow of
abuse just fuels her decision as she makes plans to leave the abusive relationship, taking her two daughters with her.
Introduction (Maria)
Intimate partner violence (IPV) is a critical public health concern that affects millions of i
ndividuals worldwide. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), in 2023, IPV
encompasses a range of behaviours within intimate relationships that inflict physical,
sexual, or psychological harm to one or both partners. This definition includes not only
overtly aggressive actions, such as physical assaults, but also more subtle forms of abuse, including emotional manipulation, persistent control, and psychological intimidation
carried out by current or former partners. The scope of the issue is staggering, with
alarming statistics highlighting the urgency of addressing this crisis. In the United States
alone, it is estimated that approximately twenty lives are lost to intimate partner violence every minute, which translates to over ten million individuals- both women and men-
experiencing significant effects each year.
The situation in the Caribbean region is notably alarming, with studies indicating that
approximately forty percent of women experience violence from their intimate partners (Haarr, 2021). Trinidad and Tobago, in particular, has seen a troubling surge in domestic
violence cases. Health Minister Terrence Deyalsingh reported that from March 2020 to
March 2022, the police documented an alarming 6,250 instances of domestic violence, the majority of which were categorized as intimate partner violence. This statistic underscores the prevalence of IPV and highlights the urgent need for systemic interventions aimed at addressing and preventing such violence. Overall, intimate partner violence remains a
significant issue that necessitates a collaborative effort from communities, policymakers, and support services to ensure the safety and recovery of victims. Hence, this paper will analyse the group’s dynamic interactions, functions, and the therapeutic session’s overall impact on the treatment group.
Case Overview/Background of the case (Corelle)
Stephanie, a 28-year-old stay-at-home mother, has endured twelve years of physical and emotional abuse from her husband, Shawn, who is 40. Their relationship is characterized
by a cycle of violence followed by apologies with flowers and gifts. Stephanie’s own
traumatic childhood experiences, where she witnessed her father’s abuse of her mother
and heard of her grandmother experiencing the same cycle of abuse, have influenced her feelings of entrapment and shame. She maintains a facade of a happy family while
fearing for her two daughters, ages 6 and 8 and their potential to experience similar
abuse, as well as her financial situation if she were to leave Shawn. Recognizing the gravity of her circumstances, Stephanie decides to break the cycle for her daughters’ sake. She
seeks help from the Coalition Against Domestic Violence, planning to leave Shawn and
take her children with her. This decision marks a pivotal turning point in her journey towards empowerment and the safeguarding of her children. Determining to create a safer,
healthier environment for her daughters, Stephanie is committed to breaking the cycle of abuse that has afflicted her family for generations. Her actions not only represent a fight
for her safety but also a promise to shield her children from the pain and suffering she has endured.
The Coalition Against Domestic Violence is a treatment group meticulously structured to
provide comprehensive support to individuals who have experienced intimate partner
violence (IPV. The group comprises 18 young women between the ages of 20 and 30 years, all of whom have experienced intimate partner violence. Participants in this group share a common background of trauma, which creates a foundation for empathy and understanding among members.
This program aims to facilitate the healing process, promote recovery, and help
participants regain control over their lives following traumatic experiences. The
organization is committed to fostering a safe, secure and non-judgemental environment where survivors of IPV can openly share their personal and emotional experiences without being judged. Creating a supportive atmosphere is crucial for survivors as they embark on their healing journey.
When conducting therapeutic group sessions to address issues of intimate partner
violence, the ideal number of participants should be approximately 6 to 12 individuals. This range is significant as it fosters an environment conducive to meaningful interaction and
support. It allows each participant ample opportunity to share their experiences, feelings
and challenges while receiving constructive feedback and support from others. Therefore, three caseworkers were assigned to facilitate the group sessions within this collaborative group setting. The caseworkers were instrumental in developing a structured platform
where survivors can gain educational information, including the complex dynamics of IPV, the recurring nature of abusive relationships, and the critical task of recognizing early
warning signs members to of potential danger. The group aims to empower survivors to
understand their past experiences and make informed decisions by equipping the
participants with this essential knowledge.
Within the first session, participants were encouraged to share their personal experiences
related to intimate partner violence as this method aimed to create an open dialogue,
encouraging group members to divulge in a supportive environment. As the discussions
progressed, some individuals actively shared their stories while others communicated
their feelings through non-verbal cues, indicating their comfort level. Meanwhile,
Stephanie tended to withdraw from the conversation, demonstrating reluctance to reveal her thoughts and feelings. Recognizing her unwillingness, the caseworker expressed
empathy towards her, assuring her that this was a safe environment to discharge. Other
group members demonstrated their support by exhibiting compassion in their interactions with her. They offered reassurance by sharing their own experiences as survivors of
intimate partner violence, which allowed Stephanie to feel comfortable and share her
experiences. This fostered a sense of solidarity and emphasized that she was not alone in
facing these challenges, creating an environment of understanding and empathy within
the group.
The caseworkers also facilitated discussions and hands-on exercises to foster
empowerment among group members. Through these sessions, participants developed essential skills in setting personal boundaries, enhancing self-esteem, and implementing
actionable strategies to regain control over various aspects of their lives. Members were
divided into sub-groups to maximize engagement and collaboration, each tasked with
specific activities targeting the development of crucial life skills. These activities included workshops on financial independence, which taught participants how to budget, manage expenses, make informed financial decisions, and emphasise the importance of self-care and mental health. The group dynamics were notably positive, with all members actively
supporting each other. Each sub-group selected a team lead to represent their collective insights and findings during the presentation to the larger group. This approach not only
encourages teamwork but also allows individuals to articulate their experiences and learn. Participants expressed a significant sense of empowerment following the presentations, indicating that the process profoundly impacted them.
Effective communication in the group setting promotes respect and compassionate
interaction among members. The caseworker’s discussion guidance cultivates a sense of safety and trust within the group. They reassured participants that their emotions would be treated with care and respect, which included providing trigger warnings for sensitive topics and offering practical tools to manage strong emotions during discussions. Many
group members expressed feelings of guilt, believing they were responsible for the abuse they suffered. Statements such as, “ I was responsible for him behaving that way,” and “ If only they did things differently.” reflected this sentiment. Others shared that their partner’s
behaviours is a manifestation of affection and love for them. This belief often stems from a desire to feel valued and cherished within the relationship. Two participants believed that
the male figure held the predominant role within the household. They suggested that
adherence to their partner’s directives could have effectively resolved conflicts and
mitigated the abusive behaviours exhibited by their partners. Additionally, some
participants blamed themselves for not leaving their abusive relationship sooner, wishing
they had recognized the signs of abuse and ended the relationship.
The caseworker fostered an environment that empowers survivors to take control of their
healing journey by providing choices and promoting self-determination. This supportive approach helps survivors gradually rebuild their sense of worth, which may have been
undermined in their abusive relationships. Group therapy also offers ongoing support,
allowing survivors to form lasting connections with others who share similar experiences. Members developed meaningful relationships, finding comfort in knowing they were not
alone in their struggles. This shared sense of solidarity can be profoundly healing.
Rational of service (Maria)
Zastrow and Kirst. Abraham (2007) highlights critical factors that often prevent individuals experiencing domestic violence from leaving their abusive relationships. Key among these factors is economic dependence, which limits personal freedom and ability to support oneself, characterized by a lack of financial resources that may compel an individual to
remain in an abusive situation; low self-esteem, which can result in feelings of
worthlessness and inadequacy; loss of autonomy, which leaves individuals feeling
powerless in their circumstances; and an absence of affection; where a lack of emotional can reinforce the cycle of dependency on the abuser. Within this context, group therapy
emerges as a powerful resource for survivors of intimate partner violence (IPV), offering a supportive environment where they can explore behaviours and the tendencies to identify with their aggressor.
Research by Holzel et al. (2011) and Kirkpatrick et al. (2011) emphasizes the essential role of building and maintaining interpersonal connections among group members. Such
connections can be transformative, sparking the change process and enabling
participants to move beyond a victim mentality. Through group therapy, individuals are empowered to redefine relational challenges, fostering emotional growth individually and
collectively, ultimately promoting personal healing. This therapeutic approach resonates with Krist Ashman’s (2009) definition of treatment groups as spaces where individuals can address personal issues, modify behaviours, manage stress, and improve their overall
quality of life. These groups stand as crucial pillars of support, stability and
encouragement. This treatment framework catalyses healing and recovery by helping
participants reconnect with their peers’ comfort and regulatory influence. Hence, we have identified and classified our group as a treatment group in this case.
Purpose & Group Objective (Gail)
Toseland and Rivas (2012) articulate that group work is a structured, goal-directed activity involving small treatment and task groups, which are specifically designed to address
socio-emotional needs and practical objectives. The fundamental aim of formal and
informal groups is to address the diverse needs of individual members while
simultaneously fulfilling the collective requirements of the group and the broader
community. This process is intricately shaped by a set of personal values and
professional ethics, and the prevailing social context. The formation and function of groups are intricately linked to their purpose, which must align with the desired outcome expected from the group’s activities. The specific objectives that a group seeks to achieve provide
the foundational rationale for assembling its members. These objectives can be generally categorized into two distinct types: treatment-oriented groups, which focus on the
enhancement of personal well-being, and task-oriented groups, which emphasize the
completion of specific tasks or projects.
The purpose of this support group is to provide a secure, confidential and supportive
environment for individuals who have endured the challenges associated with intimate
partner violence (IPV). Victims of intimate partner violence often grapple with feelings of isolation, vulnerability, and psychological distress, which can create significant barriers to
healing. For many survivors, discovering a nurturing space to heal and rebuild their lives is paramount. Support groups are designed to provide a platform for sharing personal
experiences and foster disclosures. These groups play a critical role in diminishing the
stigma surrounding IPV, which is often a significant hurdle for survivors. They aim to
enhance members’ self-esteem, refine their coping strategies, and improve overall
psychosocial functioning, as noted by Paterson et al. (2011) as referenced by Bateganya et al. ( 2015).
Moreover, social support emerges as a crucial factor in alleviating the adverse effects of intimate partner violence. According to Obge et al. (2020), robust social networks can
mitigate the adverse impact of intimate partner violence and foster overall health improvement. This is particularly evident in a study conducted by Santos(2017), which highlighted
the positive outcomes of group intervention for female victims of IPV’ Participants in the
study not only reported a decrease in rates of revictimization but also demonstrated
significant reductions in depressive symptoms and clinical distress. Further reinforcing these findings, research by Beeble et al. ( 2009), as cited in Davies et al. (2023), indicated that intimate partner violence survivors with robust social support systems reported superior
quality of life outcomes, particularly in physical health, vocational success, and feeling of
belonging when compared to those who lack a robust social network. Furthermore, Goodman et al. (2005), as referenced in the research by Davies et al. ( 2023), found that women who enjoyed higher levels of social support experienced a 20% lower risk of experiencing abuse over twelve months. In contrast, those with diminished social support faced a
staggering 60% risk, highlighting the protective benefits of a supportive network.
The group’s mission is to guide survivors through the intricate process of trauma recovery, helping them rebuild their self-esteem and regain a sense of agency. It empowers them to make informed decisions about their lives and well-being, as Davies (2023) articulated, and positive quality-of-life outcomes are bolstered when support networks actively enable
women to adopt effective coping strategies and skills. Furthermore, the group aims to
facilitate access to resources that can assist members in navigating their transitions
towards a more secure and fulfilling life. Creating a supportive and understanding
environment alleviates isolation, making survivors feel more connected and supported.
According to Johnson et al. (2020), this sense of belonging is crucial, as interactions among members and sharing similar experiences promote interpersonal learning and growth (Yolam, 2015). Group members can foster resilience, empowerment, and recovery by
engaging in this process together, paving the way towards a brighter future.
Group Objectives:
The support group is dedicated to achieving several key goals and objectives designed to assist survivors of intimate partner violence (IPV) and enhance their overall well-being.
One of the primary objectives is to raise awareness about the pervasive and complex
issue of intimate partner violence. This involves not only educating the community about
the various forms IPV can take, such as physical, emotional, and economic abuse, but
also highlighting its profound impact on individuals, families, and society as a whole. Workshops, seminars, and outreach programs are integral to this educational effort, aimed at
equipping participants and the broader community with the knowledge to recognize the
signs of IPV and respond appropriately.
In tandem with raising awareness, the group seeks to provide survivors access to
essential resources. This includes connecting participants with legal aid services to help
them navigate their legal rights and options and counselling services that can offer
psychological support during the healing process. This group also collaborates with local shelters to ensure that survivors have safe places to turn to when they need immediate
protection or a temporary refuge from abusive situations. By offering this vital network of
resources, the support group empowers survivors to take proactive steps towards rebuilding their lives. A critical goal of the support group is to offer ongoing emotional support to
survivors, recognizing that the trauma of IPV can have long-lasting effects on self-esteem and personal agency. Support groups and individual counselling sessions provide safe
spaces for survivors to express their feelings, share their experiences, and receive
validation. These supportive environments help individuals rebuild their self-worth and
regain a sense of control over their lives, which is often eroded in the context of abusive
relationships.
The group also strongly emphasizes promoting healthy relationships through educational workshops and discussions covering essential topics such as setting healthy boundaries,
effective communication techniques, and the principles of mutual respect. By instilling these values, the support group aims to equip survivors with the skills necessary to forge
positive, healthy relationships in future. Moreover, advocacy for essential policy changes
that can better protect and support survivors of IPV is a significant pillar of the group
mission. This includes engaging with policymakers, participating in campaigns, and raising public awareness to push reforms that enhance legal protections and support services
for victims of intimate partner violence. The goal is to create systemic change that not
only addresses the immediate needs of survivors but also works towards preventing future occurrences of violence.
In addition, the support group recognizes the importance of promoting family stability. They provide resources and educational programs aimed at helping survivors create safer,
healthier environments for themselves and their children. These include parenting
workshops, financial literacy programs, and connections to community resources that
support family well-being. Ultimately, the support group strives to break the cycle of
violence by fostering a culture of respect, equality, and empowerment. By working
collaboratively to address the myriad challenges faced by survivors of IPV, the group aims to help individuals regain control over their lives, move forward with resilience, and
ultimately thrive in a future free from violence.
Type of intervention Plan (Kandy)
Group interventions are systematically organized programs that deliver support and
resources to groups of individuals rather than focusing solely on individual participants.
These interventions are extensively utilized within the healthcare sector for various
purposes, including but not limited to mental health recovery, behaviour modification,
peer support, self-management, and health education (Biggs, 2020). Therefore, individuals participating in intimate partner violence (IPV) groups must receive interventions that are not only effective but also tailored to their specific situations and needs. Such personalized approaches are necessary to provide each participant with the opportunity to heal from
their traumatic experiences, reclaim autonomy over their lives, and cultivate healthier, safer relationships moving forward. Survivors of IPV often navigate a complex and interrelated landscape of abuse that includes psychological manipulation, emotional distress, physical violence, and sometimes financial control and exploitation. These experiences can lead to profound and long-lasting effects on a survivor’s sense of self-worth, ability to trust others, and overall decision-making capacity.
A generic, one-size-fits-all approach is inadequate for addressing the deeply rooted and complex needs of survivors of intimate partner violence (IPV). Instead, tailored
interventions are essential to effectively meet the diverse needs of this population;
consequently, the Coalition Against Domestic Violence will implement a series of targeted
interventions. For instance, trauma-informed counselling not only assists participants in
processing their experiences of abuse but also provides a safe and supportive
environment where their feelings are acknowledged and validated. This method teaches
healthy coping strategies that are essential for their emotional recovery. According to Baird (2021), the Trauma-informed approach underscores the importance for all service
providers to acknowledge and address the potential impact of trauma on the individuals
they assist. Therefore, the traumatologist at the centre would initiate individual and group
therapy sessions while creating a supportive environment in which survivors were able to
reflect on their experiences, recover from the trauma, and cultivate resilience.
Another intervention utilized in the group setting is psycho-education and skills
development, which enables survivors to identify the indicators of intimate partner
violence (IPV), understand the dynamics of power within abusive relationships, and learn
effective communication and coping techniques. Consequently, safety planning becomes a critical component of these interventions. This process involves creating personalized
strategies that assist survivors in safely exiting and managing potential future risks.
Therefore, this approach empowers survivors to take practical and actionable steps
towards rebuilding their independence and ensuring their safety. Legal advocacy is
another service employed at the centre. Legal professionals and advocates play a vital
role in empowering individuals who are experiencing intimate partner violence by guiding them through the overwhelming legal landscape by obtaining restraining orders,
navigating the court system, and connecting them with vital community services. By offering tailored legal advice and expertise, these professionals ensure that survivors’ rights are upheld and that they have access to the necessary resources to seek justice effectively.
This support was evident when one of the participants shared how the legal professional
assisted her in seeking a restraining order against her partner, who has a troubling history of showing up unannounced at her workplace, creating an intimidating environment, and, on several occasions, inflicted minor injuries to her upper body during confrontations. The guidance received not only equipped her with the knowledge of the legal processes
involved but reinforced her confidence in taking steps toward securing her safety and well-being.
Theoretical Base for Intervention (
Group Structure (Maria)
Leadership (Maria)
Group Cohesion (wene)
Communication (Wene)
Group Dynamic (Wene)
Norms (Wene)
The case study of Stephanie, a victim of intimate partner violence (IPV), provides a
profound context to explore the elements of Group Cohesion, Communication, Group
Dynamics, and Norms. These elements are essential for fostering effective support within groups addressing sensitive issues such as IPV.
Group Cohesion
Group cohesion is vital for fostering a sense of belonging and commitment among group members. In the context of discussing Stephanie’s situation, the shared goal of supporting victims of IPV can enhance group cohesion. Carron and Brawley (2000) highlight that
cohesion significantly impacts team performance and member satisfaction, which is
critical when dealing with emotionally charged topics like IPV. As our group members
shared personal experiences and insights related to IPV, we developed a stronger bond,
creating a supportive atmosphere conducive to open dialogue.
Communication
Effective communication is fundamental in addressing the complexities of IPV and
understanding the nuances of individual experiences. Hackman and Morris (1975)
emphasize that communication processes within groups can enhance decision-making
and problem-solving. In our group, establishing clear channels for communication
allowed members to express their thoughts and emotions regarding Stephanie’s plight.
This was particularly important as we navigated the emotional weight of her story, which
required active listening and empathetic responses. As we communicated openly, we
began to understand the diverse perspectives present in the group, which ultimately
enriched our discussions.
Group Dynamics
Group dynamics encompass the interactions and psychological processes that occur within the group, influencing its overall effectiveness. Forsyth (2010) explains that dynamics
include leadership roles, member interactions, and responses to conflict. In our
discussions
about Stephanie, we experienced moments of tension as differing viewpoints emerged
regarding the best approaches to support her. While some members focused on
immediate interventions, others stressed long-term solutions. This diversity in thought highlighted the complexity of group dynamics, as we had to navigate disagreements while
maintaining a collaborative spirit.
Norms
Establishing norms is crucial for creating an environment where group members feel safe
to share their thoughts and feelings. Cialdini and Goldstein (2004) note that norms govern behavior and expectations within a group. Early in our discussions, we recognized the need for norms regarding confidentiality, respect, and empathy. By agreeing on these norms,
we fostered a safe space for discussing sensitive topics related to IPV. This allowed us to
engage deeply with Stephanie’s case and explore the broader implications of IPV without
fear of judgment.
Conclusion
The case study of Stephanie offers a poignant illustration of the importance of group
dynamics elements—Group Cohesion, Communication, Group Dynamics, and Norms—in
effectively addressing intimate partner violence. By understanding and applying these
elements, our group was able to navigate the complexities of discussing Stephanie’s
experiences. This reflective process not only enhanced our collective understanding of IPV but also strengthened our ability to support one another as we worked towards finding
solutions for victims like Stephanie.
Write the termination and the evaluation based on the above findings.