Spousal Violence Levels Among Substance-Abusing Couples After Behavioral Couples Therapy Versus Individual-Based Treatment

Domestic violence and substance abuse are two of the most prevalent and detrimental social ills plaguing American society today. Additionally, domestic violence and substance abuse are inter-related, and are often found within the same family or relationship. Understanding the relationship between these two problems is essential, especially in the context of therapy or treatment. Previous studies have shown that behavioral couples therapy (BCT), a treatment for substance abuse problems in which couples participate in conjoint therapy sessions, can be effective in reducing the levels of spousal violence in alcoholic couples (O'Farrell & Murphy, 1995). Additionally, BCT has been effective in the treatment of substance abusers in terms of relationship functioning (Fals-Stewart, Birchler, &, O'Farrell, 1996). Fals-Stewart, Birchler, and O'Farrell (1996) found that in the year following BCT, couples reported less marital distress and more positive dyadic adjustment. The present investigation examined the effectiveness of BCT in reducing spousal violence levels among couples whose male partner is undergoing substance abuse treatment. It was found that BCT is more effective than individual-based treatment in reducing posttreatment spousal violence among the couples.