The effect of an adapted personal growth training programme on female victims of domestic violence in Potchefstroom

Abstract

Violence against women in cohabiting and marital relationships is, at present, a prominent phenomenon in South Africa. Domestic violence against women and children in South Africa is widespread and on the increase, also in Potchefstroom. Yet limited interventions are available. The interventions that are available include the SAPS, the court for the protection order, NGO’s and social workers. Female victims need measures that focus on building and empowering them with skills. Therefore the researcher adapted the Personal Growth Programme of FAMSA in Welkom to cater for the needs of female victims of domestic violence who are currently or were previously in an abusive relationship. The newly formulated Personal Empowerment Training Programme (PETP) is a tool that provides the female victims with the opportunity to deal with poor self–image, emotional demoralisation, loss of selfhood, self–blame and shame. Aim The aim of the research was to determine the effect of the PETP on the knowledge, attitude and behaviour of female victims of domestic violence in Potchefstroom. Method The main core of the research can be depicted as programme evaluation in which an evaluative research design was used. In the main study an experimental group was subjected to the PETP, while the control group was not. However, both experiential group and control group had to complete the pre–post questionnaire. Results The results proved that the PETP had a positive impact on the knowledge, attitude and behaviour of female victims affected by domestic violence.