title: Standards for batterer intervention programs in Canada: a history and review.
abstract: This article reports on the growing trend of setting standards for intervention with batterers. All existing Canadian standards for batterer intervention programs (BIPs) are examined, including a discussion on how they came into effect and any controversy associated with their development. A brief background of the battering intervention field and the growth of BIP standards in North America is provided, followed by a description of the types and content of Canadian standards. Compliance with standards were mandatory in two regions and voluntary in three others. Two more regions had standards in a draft stage of development. Elements of standards typically included directives on: general program goals; the protocol and procedures programs should follow, including counselling format; and program staff ethics and qualifications. The article concludes with a discussion of the findings and suggestions for improving standards.
authors.forename: J
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Dankwort
authors.forename: J
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Austin
mesh_terms: D002170:Canada; D003156:Community Mental Health Services / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence / Q000639:trends*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D011785:Quality Assurance, Health Care / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence; D013179:Spouse Abuse / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence / Q000517:prevention & control*; D014481:United States