Does the Transtheoretical Model Predict Attrition in Domestic Violence Treatment Programs?

Abstract

Attrition in intervention programs for domestically violent men is considered to be a serious and enduring problem. Researchers have found a number of sociodemographic variables that partially explain this phenomenon; however, models based on these variables have a limited predictive power. Scott (2004) argues that a firm theoretical base is needed in future investigations of the problem and suggests the use of the transtheoretical model of behavior change (TTM), which was found to predict dropout with accuracy in other areas of behavioral change. This study investigated the relationship between four TTM constructs (Stages of Change, Decisional Balance, Self-Efficacy, and Processes of Change) and premature termination with a sample of Canadian French-speaking men (N = 302) in five domestic violence treatment programs. Contrary to the initial hypotheses, the TTM constructs did not predict dropout. Discussion investigates how social desirability bias affects results being obtained by current TTM measures and whether more motivation to change at intake necessarily relates to involvement in treatment for longer periods of time.

Turning Points for Perpetrators of Intimate Partner Violence

“…These studies have attempted to elucidate the process factors or mechanisms that, at an individual level, are associated with positive outcomes (Eckhardt et al, 2006). Many studies have applied theoretical models, like the transtheoretical model (TTM) of behavioral change, to populations of IPV perpetrators (Alexander & Morris, 2008;Alexander, Morris, Tracy, & Frye, 2010;Babcock, Canady, Senior, & Eckhardt, 2005;Brodeur, Rondeau, Brochu, Lindsay, & Phelps, 2008;Daniel & Murphy, 1997;Eckhardt, Holtzworth-Munroe, Norlander, Sibley, & Cahill, 2008;Murphy & Maiuro, 2008;Simmons, Lehmann, & Cobb, 2008). This theory suggests that individuals proceed through a set of stages, called the stages of change, in order to prepare for and maintain behavioral change.…”

Correlates related to follow‐up in a community engagement program in North Central Florida

“…Indeed, the TTM has also been applied to explain differential study completion rate among drug users. While some research (Scott, 2004) noted that TTM can be used to predict study attrition others (Brodeur, Rondeau, Brochu, Lindsay, & Phelps, 2008) did not find the TTM predictive of study attrition. In accordance with the TTM, community members attitude towards completing study follow‐ups, may be based on their knowledge about research.…”

Dialogues in Partner Abusive Clients’ Group Treatment: Conversational Tools Used by Counselors With Differently Motivated Clients

“…Researchers working with partner-violent clients have viewed the application of SCM as questionable in the context of abuser treatment (see Brodeur, Rondeau, Brochu, Lindsay & Phelps, 2008;Casey, Day & Howells, 2005). The critics have DIALOGUES IN PARTNER ABUSIVE CLIENTS' GROUP 7 seen SCM and its measuring tools as providing an overly simplified and generalizing model of change.…”