Evaluating the Feasibility and Client Acceptability of Video Intervention Adjuncts Developed for the Treatment of Victims of Intimate Partner Violence: A Stage One Pilot Trial

Abstract

Intimate partner violence (IPV) is a common occurrence in the U.S. Victims of IPV are at an elevated risk of experiencing an array of physical and mental health consequences, which frequently co-occur and act synergistically, placing victims at a higher risk for revictimization. One transdiagnostic treatment, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), focused on helping individuals gain more balanced emotions and behaviors, has shown success in treating victims of IPV. However, the DBT for IPV treatment protocol is not without its limitations. Specifically, clients may need additional exposure to the skills and concepts taught in the treatment. Yet, additional exposure to the skills facilitated though a therapist is difficult to do given the limited budgets for services for victims of IPV and the client provider gap. In order to address these issues, video intervention adjuncts (VIAs) were developed to serve as treatment adjuncts. A Stage One Pilot Trial was conducted to examine the preliminary efficacy, feasibility, and participant acceptability of the two-day DBT for IPV skills group paired with the VIAs versus the two-day DBT for IPV skills group without the VIAs. Twenty-four women were randomly assigned to the experimental VIA or control condition and completed a one-month follow-up. The data suggests that the VIAs were viewed as acceptable and feasible to implement. Further those in the VIA condition reported greater skill use (with one skill, mindfulness, being significantly greater) and superior outcomes on clinical measures (with one outcome measure, interpersonal sensitivity, being significantly improved). The results of this Stage One Pilot Study provides preliminary evidence that the VIAs are a useful addition to the DBT for IPV skills group and warrant further research.