The effects of treatment for substance use problems on intimate partner violence: A review of empirical data

Abstract

Population and clinical studies document an association between intimate partner violence (IPV) and substance use problems. The current review addressed the question of whether, and to what extent, treatment for substance use problems is associated with reductions in partner abusive behavior. Data from naturalistic studies were used to examine the prevalence and frequency of IPV before and after substance use treatment, IPV among stably remitted versus relapsed cases after treatment, and factors that may explain observed reductions in partner violence. On average, the prevalence of IPV was 2-3 times higher before substance use treatment than after treatment, and the relative risk for IPV after treatment was 2-3 times greater for relapsed versus remitted cases. Small to moderate effect sizes were observed for reductions in the frequency of IPV after substance use treatment, with large effects observed for reductions in psychological aggression. Both reduced alcohol consumption and improved relationship functioning appear to account for observed reductions in partner abuse.