“He Learned Many Things, But Was Reflecting Them Onto Me” The Unintended Consequences of Perpetrators Programs for Victims of Coercive Control and Their Children

Purpose Perpetrator programs play a crucial role in addressing domestic violence by focusing on abuser accountability and
victim safety. However, unintended consequences are overlooked in the literature. The lack of research on this topic may
inadvertently increase risks to some women, as perpetrators may exploit these programs to perpetuate their regime of coercive
control. To fill this gap, this paper answers the following research question: “What are the unintended consequences of
perpetrator programs for victims of coercive control and their children?”
Methods This paper draws upon the results of an exploratory study conducted in the Canadian province of Quebec. That
study sought to better understand the experiences of nine women (N = 9) who experienced coercive control and whose current
or former partners have enrolled in a perpetrator program. Semi-structured individual interviews were conducted with
the participants.
Results Thematic analysis of the qualitative data found the following unintended consequences: fostering a “false sense of
hope”; increasing anger and resentment, potentially leading to intensified violence and control; instilling a sense of superiority;
equipping perpetrators with new skills; and providing them with a report or certificate that could be used as “evidence”
of change. These findings are discussed through the lens of women’s and children’s safety, as well as perpetrators’ pattern
of behavior.
Conclusions Since the findings presented in this paper carry significant implications for the well-being of abused women
and their children, the authors call for standardized accreditation, partner contacts, and heightened vigilance in monitoring
program outcomes.