Improving the Response to Domestic Violence: Recommendations to Federal Agencies

• NCJ Number: 247407
• Author(s): Susan Schechter
• Date Published: January 1996
• Length: 91 pages
• Grant Number(s): R13CCR711883-01
• Sponsoring Agency: US Dept of Health & Human Services
• Sale Source: US Dept of Health & Human Services
• Publication Format: Document (Online)
• Publication Type: Legislation/Policy Description; Legislation/Policy Analysis
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

In order to improve the national response to domestic violence, this study, which was funded by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) proposes recommendations to Federal agencies regarding gaps in community services as well as training and coordination among violence-prevention professional disciplines.

Abstract

Five findings emerged from the needs assessment conducted for this study. First, although many communities have established shelters for women and children victims of domestic violence, the country as a whole lacks adequate crisis responses. Second, few communities have developed the full network of support, i.e., coordinated criminal justice interventions, safe housing after a shelter stay, counseling for trauma, and health-care services. Third, many of the professionals who should intervene in domestic violence situations have not received adequate training. Fourth, many local domestic-violence service organizations are unable to meet the demand for services to families where domestic violence is occurring because they lack appropriate technical assistance. Fifth, local domestic violence programs need assistance in evaluating the impact of their domestic-violence prevention efforts. Based on these needs-assessment findings, five recommendations regarding Federal leadership were repeatedly mentioned. First, Federal officials should continue to make publicized presentations about domestic violence. Second, Federal agencies should serve as models to State and local governments in commitment to domestic-violence work, including grant priorities. Third, Federal agencies should lead in developing partnerships with civic and professional groups in addressing this report's recommendations. Fourth, Federal agencies should collaborate in developing standards for the number and kinds of services and interventions required to keep families safe. Fifth, in their grants and technical assistance, Federal agencies should emphasize the development of innovative, collaborative, interdisciplinary projects. One section of this report presents recommendations for Federal agencies in 10 substantive areas of action. 3 references and appended details on this study's methodology