This book examines international perspectives on intimate partner violence (IPV). It highlights the current state of IPV prevention and intervention efforts across countries, including Colombia, Iran, Russia, China, India, Turkey, Nigeria, the United Kingdom, Finland, and the United States. The book examines the countries of origin in context (e.g., population, area, religion, ethnic diversity) and includes current rates of IPV in each country. In addition, it addresses growth areas and challenges regarding IPV prevention and intervention, including legal issues as well as cultural and social contexts and their relation to IPV - and the clinical interventions used - within each country. The book discusses challenges and opportunities for growth and seeks to gain a more robust and systemic perspective on the global phenomenon of IPV. It examines how larger social, cultural, and global factors affect the lives of the individuals whom family therapists serve and advocate for as well as provide guidance for culturally appropriate clinical and prevention practices. Key areas of coverage include: * International perspectives on intimate partner violence. * Intervention and resources available for victims of intimate partner violence. * Policies and laws relating to intimate partner violence. International Perspectives on Intimate Partner Violence is an essential resource for clinicians, therapists, and practitioners as well as researchers, professors, and graduate students in family studies, clinical psychology, and public health, as well as all interrelated disciplines.

Up to 65% of couples who seek therapy for marital problems have had at least one prior violent episode. Unfortunately, therapists often miss this critical information because they do not effectively assess for it. This book presents a safety-focused approach to assessment and treatment of couples who choose to remain together after one or both partners have been violent. Treatment options for intimate partner violence have evolved alongside the growing awareness and broader definitions of domestic violence. Since 1997 the authors have conducted Domestic Violence Focused Couples Treatment (DVFCT), collected data, and refined their program. The authors outline their assessment and screening process and share case illustrations to demonstrate when conjoint treatment can be a safe and viable option. Readers get an overview of the 18-session course of DVFCT and tips for adapting it for multi-couple groups or for a single couple. The major tenets of solution-focused therapy, such as underscoring even the smallest of successes, are emphasized throughout, as are the following special features: -safety planning -mindfulness techniques for anger awareness and reduction -negotiated time-out procedures -drug and alcohol use modules -psychoeducational tools and materials on violence Therapists will learn how to assess intimate partner violence and help couples eliminate all forms of violence and begin on a positive path toward their vision of a healthy relationship.