Risk Assessment Among Batterers Arrested for Domestic Assault

Abstract

Increased attention to the problem of domestic violence has brought with it a swell in the number of cases entering the court system. Particularly when resources are limited, it is critical to assess the dangerousness of such cases. This preliminary study attempted to add to the knowledge base about risk factors for continued abuse among batterers who have been arrested for domestic assault. Specifically, we investigated the predictive power of the level of psychological abuse in the relationship. Results suggest that psychological abuse—in particular, dominance and isolation—may be a useful variable in assessing dangerousness.