Crespo, M., & Arinero, M. (2010). Assessment of the efficacy of a psychological treatment for women victims of violence by their intimate male partner. The Spanish Journal of Psychology, 13(2), 849.
Crespo and Arinero evaluated the long-term efficacy of two versions of a brief psychotherapeutic cognitive-behavioral program for women who were victims of intimate partner violence. Women were randomized into one of two groups – one that included a module on exposure techniques and the other, a module on communication skills training. The program is comprised of seven modules; six common modules and one specific module involving either exposure techniques or communication skills. The six common modules cover the following: (a) diaphragmatic breathing exercises to control arousal; (b) improving mood by planning to increase pleasant activities; (c) improving self-esteem; (d) restructuring of biased cognitions; (e) increasing problem-solving skills for an independent life; and (f) psychoeducation about violence in intimate relationships. In between sessions women received written materials with homework exercises. Exposure therapy addressed the posttraumatic symptoms of re-experiencing and avoidance. Communication skills training targeted feelings of anger and the ability to express and communicate.