The Utility of Motivational Interviewing in Domestic Violence Shelters: A Qualitative Exploration

Abstract

This pilot study examined the use of motivational interviewing (MI) with 20 women receiving services at a domestic violence shelter, using qualitative and quantitative research methods. The experimental group (n = 10) received regular treatment services from shelter counselors trained in MI, whereas the control group (n = 10) received regular treatment services only. The quantitative findings related to readiness for change were published separately (Rasmussen, Hughes, & Murray, 2008). The qualitative findings suggest MI is an effective intervention for enhancing the impact of regular treatment services in survivors of intimate partner violence and increasing their self-efficacy about ending violence and avoiding violent relationships.

KEYWORDS:

• domestic violence
• domestic violence shelters
• domestic violence survivors
• interventions
• intimate partner violence
• motivational interviewing
• qualitative research methods
• women

Acknowledgments

This study was funded by a $6,000 grant from the Dean's Research Award from the College of Health and Human Services at San Diego State University. We appreciate the assistance of the staff of the shelter where the study took place: Roe Piccoli, LMFT, Program Director, and shelter counselors Diane Sagan, LMFT, and Amy Smith, MFT Intern. We acknowledge Melinda Hohman, PhD, for her work in training the shelter staff in MI and evaluating the fidelity of the interventions. We thank Robert Geffner, PhD, for his assistance in designing the study.