Description
* Introduction and Program Overview
* Defining Domestic Violence: Physical, emotional, sexual, and financial abuse.
* Program Rules and Expectations: Confidentiality, attendance, and zero tolerance for threats.
* Understanding the Group Process: The role of peer support and feedback.
* The Dynamics of Abuse
* The Power and Control Wheel: Identifying tactics used to dominate a partner.
* The Cycle of Violence: Tensions building, incident, and honeymoon phases.
* Victim’s Perspective: Understanding the impact of violence and fear on a partner.
* Accountability and Responsibility
* Taking Responsibility: Moving beyond blaming the victim, alcohol/drugs, or stress.
* Challenging Justifications: Deconstructing excuses for violent and controlling behavior.
* Consequences of Violence: Exploring the legal, personal, and relational impacts.
* Emotional Regulation
* Anger Management: Identifying triggers and developing non-violent coping mechanisms.
* De-escalation Techniques: Strategies for calming down during heated moments.
* Recognizing and Expressing Feelings: Differentiating between feelings and actions.
* Communication Skills
* Assertive Communication: Expressing needs and feelings without aggression or passivity.
* Active Listening: Paraphrasing, validating, and understanding a partner’s perspective.
* Non-Verbal Communication: Recognizing the impact of body language and tone of voice.
* Building Equality and Respect
* The Equality Wheel: A framework for healthy, respectful relationships.
* Partnership and Shared Responsibility: Discussing shared decision-making, parenting, and finances.
* Trust and Support: Rebuilding trust and providing emotional support to a partner.
* Impact on Children
* Childhood Exposure to Violence: The psychological and emotional effects on children.
* Modeling Healthy Behavior: Learning how to be a positive role model.
* Co-parenting and Communication: Strategies for effective, non-abusive parenting.
* Healthy Sexuality and Intimacy
* Defining Consent: Understanding the importance of explicit, enthusiastic consent.
* Sexual Coercion vs. Intimacy: Differentiating between abuse and healthy sexual expression.
* Respecting Boundaries: Honoring a partner’s physical and emotional boundaries.
* Developing a Safety Plan
* Identifying Warning Signs: Recognizing personal triggers for violent behavior.
* “Time Out” Strategies: Using breaks to prevent an abusive incident.
* Support Systems: Identifying positive friends, family, or mentors for support.
* Termination and Future Planning
* Maintaining Progress: Strategies for continued self-reflection and growth.
* Relapse Prevention: Identifying high-risk situations and planning for them.
* Resources: Referrals to ongoing counseling, support groups, or community services.
