Integrated Cognitive Behavioral Intervention Reduces Intimate Partner Violence Among Alcohol Dependent Men, and Improves Mental Health Outcomes in their Spouses: A Clinic Based Randomized Controlled Trial from South India

Background and aim: Alcohol abuse has been associated with intimate partner violence (IPV). The current study examined the effectiveness of an integrated cognitive-behavioral intervention (ICBI) in reducing intimate partner violence (IPV) perpetration among alcohol dependent men, and improving mental health outcomes among their wives and children.

Methods: One hundred seventy-seven alcohol dependent male inpatients who screened positive for IPV perpetration in the last 6 months were randomly assigned to receive ICBI which addressed both the alcohol use and IPV (n=88), or TAU (TAU: treatment as usual) (n=89). The ICBI sessions were attended by the patients alone. All patients and their spouses were followed up over 3 months following discharge from the treatment centre.

Results: Compared to TAU participants in the ICBI group reported significantly lower IPV perpetration, and their wives scored significantly lower on depression, anxiety, and stress levels at 3-month follow up. Alcohol consumption in the men and emotional and behavioral problems in their children were not significantly different between the groups, from baseline to follow up.

Conclusions: Findings demonstrate the feasibility and effectiveness of an ICBI which addressed both the IPV and alcohol use in a coordinated manner in a vulnerable sample.