The effects of domestic violence batterer treatment on domestic violence recidivism: The Chesterfield County experience

This study determines the influence of domestic violence batterer treatment on the recidivism rate of domestic violence offenders and certain demographic characteristics associated with recidivism. The study population (N = 248) consisted of male domestic violence offenders sentenced to Community Corrections Services in Chesterfield County, Virginia, between January and December 1999. This analysis revealed treatment does not affect recidivism; however, the number of treatment sessions attended was an important factor in predicting domestic violence recidivism in the treatment group, and successful completion of all treatment sessions reduces the likelihood of domestic violence rearrest and reconviction among those who received treatment. The treatment provider in this sample did not affect recidivism.