Follow-up counseling for aggressors of domestic children: brief psychotherapy protocol

Abstract

People who have experienced domestic violence in their early infancy retain negative emotional experiences that continue to influence their lives in different levels. This may represent a high risk of violence repetition, either within the family environment or catalyzing social violence, perpetuating a cycle of violence that is epidemic in Brazil. This happens mainly because at that age, from zero to six years of age, the child is building up his or her self-esteem as well as their view of the outside world, based upon the sensations experienced and upon their personal relations. Proposing and enhancing a psychotherapeutic treatment for the offender as a more positive approach in fighting domestic violence against children is a pioneer effort in Brazil and was the goal of this study. Ninety-eight aggressors were followed-up in the core for this specific purpose. Recruitment took place spontaneously and had a community outreach social support network. The study showed that treating the offender is a viable alternative to benefit the victim more effectively than only treating the victim him/herself, as well as involving the victim in the aggressor’s treatment. This intervention aims at contributing to effectively try to stop the repetitive cycle of violence that many families go through.