Course Overview
People who have been affected by family violence (FV) often find difficulty in sharing their pain with others. Many hold out for the sake for their family, feeling of shame and financial reasons. Family violence can take many forms: psychological, mental, emotional physical, financial and deliberate neglect.
This comprehensive course is designed to equip professionals, caregivers, and advocates with the skills and knowledge necessary to effectively support adult victims of family violence. Through a combination of theoretical understanding, practical strategies, and interactive learning, participants will gain a deep understanding of the complexities surrounding family violence and the critical role they play in providing support and intervention.
By the end of the course, participants will be empowered with the knowledge and tools to make a meaningful difference in the lives of adult victims of family violence, contributing to their safety, recovery, and empowerment.
This course is conducted via lectures, case study discussions, role-play and simulations, and group discussions.
Target Audience
This course is ideal for social workers, counsellors, healthcare professionals, law enforcement officers, staff and volunteers in religious and grassroot organisations involved in supporting or advocating for victims of family violence. It is also suitable for individuals seeking to deepen their understanding of family violence and enhance their ability to offer effective support.
Duration
7 hours
Topics
Understand Family Violence Dynamics
- Explore the definitions, types, and patterns of family violence, including intimate partner violence, emotional abuse, and financial control.
- Examine the psychological and emotional impact on victims and the barriers they face in seeking help.
Identify Risk Factors and Signs
- Learn to recognize the signs and symptoms of abuse, both physical and psychological. Discuss the risk factors that contribute to family violence and how to assess the safety and needs of victims.
Understand Family Violence Perpetrators: Cultural and mental interpretations
- Socialisation from family-of-origin
- Cultural acceptance of use of violence to control
- Patriarchal perspective of having rights over others
- Purpose of such behaviour
Family Violence Using Research-based Models
- ‘Cycle of Violence’
- A model to explain the complexity and co-existence of abuse with loving behaviours
- ‘Power and Control Wheel’
- Power & Control diagram as a tool to understand the overall pattern of abusive and violent behaviours
Reasons why many Family Violence cases go unreported
- Cost-Benefit of staying on in the relationship
- Financial dependence
- Societal stigma
Effective Communication and Support Techniques:
- Develop skills in empathetic listening, crisis intervention, and supportive communication.
- Learn how to create a safe and non-judgmental space for victims to disclose their experiences.
- Conduct preliminary assessment to ascertain if the victim is safe
Legal and Ethical Considerations
- Understand the legal rights of victims, including protection orders and legal recourse. Explore the ethical responsibilities of professionals in supporting victims while respecting their autonomy and confidentiality.
Developing Safety Plans and Referrals
- Gain practical skills in creating safety plans tailored to individual needs and situations. Learn how to connect victims with appropriate resources, including shelters, counseling services, and legal assistance.
Self-Care and Resilience
Address the importance of self-care for professionals and advocates working with victims of family violence. Explore strategies for maintaining personal well-being and resilience in the face of challenging and emotionally taxing situations.