Objective: This study investigated the role of self-determined goals in predicting recidivism in domestic violence offenders. Method: The study was a posttest design with an annual follow-up of recidivism data of 88 courtmandated batterers who attended a solution-focused, goal-directed treatment program. We hypothesized that goal commitment, goal specificity, and goal agreement would predict recidivism, and that confidence to work on goals would affect the degree to which these factors predicted recidivism. Results: The recidivism rate for program participants was 10.2%, and the final model accounted for 58% of variance in recidivism. The model indicated that goal specificity and goal agreement positively predicted confidence to work on goals, which negatively predicted recidivism. Conclusions: Significance of the study was discussed with respect to the potential positive impact of utilizing self-determined goals, language of "self-determination," and "strengths and solutions" in batterer treatment as well as advances in social work intervention research.

In traditional East Asian cultures, high value is assigned to family harmony and filial piety coupled with the expectation that elders will be honored and obeyed. A lifetime of such expectations shapes how elders perceive their role and status in the family. Problems can arise when younger, less traditional, generations do not share these expectations. This article describes a solution-focused approach that facilitates the family in creating a beneficial harmony in situations of cultural dissonance. Family members are empowered to draw on personal strengths in which multiple worldviews and values of individual members are recognized, incorporated, and negotiated.

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A major challenge faced by clinical social work practice today is how to apply clinical social work knowledge and practice theories to ethnic and racial groups who have diverse cultural values and practices. A solution-focused approach that incorporates the premises and techniques of social constructivism, empowerment-based practice, and a strengths perspective is well suited for responding to the needs of these groups with respect for their values and practices. With its focus on pragmatic change and encouraging clients to create solutions for themselves, in addition to avoiding the shame that clients in these enthnic and racial populations feel in seeking professional help, this approach fits cultural approval to seek support and advice.