Addressing Differences Through Sameness: An Examination of an Intimate Partner Violence Intervention Program and the Diverse Experiences of Female Perpetrators Who Are Mandated to Attend

• In Event: Intimate Partner Violence: Prevention and Intervention

Abstract

In Canada, the implementation of pro-charging policies and the subsequent increase in women being charged for engaging in intimate partner violence (IPV) has increased the number of women being mandated to attend IPV intervention programs. Canadian researchers have only recently begun to explore this area and have acknowledged that existing intervention programs that were originally designed to address men’s offensive actions may not be appropriate for women who may act in self-defense. This paper will draw upon interviews with a diverse group of women who were court-mandated to complete Ontario’s Partner Assault Response (PAR) program in a large, urban city. An investigation into how women participants interpret their varied experiences using force compared to how their actions are addressed through the PAR program curriculum will be discussed. The findings may provide insight into whether the diverse needs of women are being adequately addressed by the criminal justice system or if distinct treatment approaches may be better suited to address their experiences with IPV.

Author

• Julie Poon, University of Guelph