Motivational interviewing with perpetrators of intimate partner abuse

Recent controlled trials have shown promising benefits of motivational interviewing (MI) as a pretreatment intervention for perpetrators of intimate partner violence (IPV). A 2-session intake, containing motivational interviewing and structured assessment feedback, was developed for this predominantly court-mandated clientele. The goals were to reduce initial hostility toward treatment, facilitate verbalization of motivation to change, resolve ambivalence, and increase receptivity to structured group therapy for IPV. An extended case report illustrates the value of MI spirit and techniques, including empathic reflection, evocative questions, affirmation, and rolling with resistance, in achieving these intervention goals.