'Domestic violence protective orders (DVPOs) are the nation's most widely used intimate partner violence (IPV)-related legal intervention, and there is emerging evidence that DVPOs are effective. However, little is known about DVPO defendants,' researchers in the United States report.
'We examined a population-based sample of male DVPO defendants. Most had previous IPV-related offenses, mental health issues, and alcohol and drug-use histories. Court personnel should be aware of the severity of violence plaintiffs are likely experiencing, and the potential danger posed by defendants, and ensure that expedited and appropriate protection is awarded,' wrote K.E. Moracco and colleagues, University of North Carolina.
The researchers concluded: 'Concurrent treatment for substance abuse and mental health may enhance the effectiveness of DVPOs.'
Moracco and colleagues published their study in Violence Against Women (Who Are the Defendants in Domestic Violence Protection Order Cases? Violence Against Women, 2010;16(11):1201-1223).
For additional information, contact K.E. Moracco, University of North Carolina, UNC Gillings School Global Public Health, Dept. of Health Behavioral & Health Education, 311 Rosenau Hall, CB 7440, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA.
Publisher contact information for the journal Violence Against Women is: Sage Publications Inc., 2455 Teller Rd., Thousand Oaks, CA 91320, USA.
Keywords: City:Chapel Hill, State:NC, Country:United States, Mental Health
This article was prepared by Psychology & Psychiatry Journal editors from staff and other reports. Copyright 2011, Psychology & Psychiatry Journal via NewsRx.com.
