Domestic violence, though not an area that is typically thought of as something to be dealt with by the world of clinical psychology, is likely to be a part of many situations in which a clinical psychologist or other related mental health professional may be called to assist those in need. Domestic violence is not simply the result of a bad relationship between two people; relationships of all kinds can be affected by domestic violence. According to the United States Department of Justice (2013), domestic violence is defined as "a pattern of abusive behavior in any relationship that is used by one partner to gain or maintain power or control over another intimate partner. Domestic violence can by physical, sexual, emotional, economic, or psychological actions or threats of actions that influence another person." As you can see, that covers most if not all areas of human interaction, areas that most certainly include the world of mental health and as a result the world of clinical psychology.

For this learning activity, conduct a search of the Kaplan library for a "domestic violence assessment tool" and find at least one article that sought to evaluate an instrument of domestic violence assessment. Additionally, conduct a general search of the Internet, and find at least one resource in your area that may either be connected to the findings of the article you located in the library, or a reliable local resource that directly addresses domestic violence prevention or treatment. In at least 250 words, discuss both the findings of the article from the Kaplan library, as well as any local resource or resources that you found concerning domestic violence in your area.

Questions to consider as part of your discussion:

What did you learn about the assessment tool you found? Does it meet the needs of its intended target, with regard to both those who administer the test, as well as those it is intended to serve? Are there any cultural or gender biases that should be taken into consideration with regard to either the administration or application of the tool? If so, what are they?

With regard to the local resources you found, what services are provided? Do they provide services for both perpetrators and victims of domestic violence? Are the services being provided meeting the needs of those they are attempting to serve?

References: US Department of Justice: Office on Violence Against Women (2013). Domestic Violence. Retrieved fromhttp://www.ovw.usdoj.gov/domviolence.htm.