Effectiveness of structured educational sessions on battered women's intentions to return to the batterer

A pre-experimental study was conducted to determine the effect of educational sessions on battered women's knowledge of battering relationships. Additionally, the study examined the intent to return or not return to the batterer and the stated reasons for the decision.

The sample for the study consisted of 32 adult women chosen by convenience sampling at a shelter for battered women. All subjects completed a three-part pre-questionnaire, attended six educational sessions on battering relationships, and completed a three-part post-questionnaire. Data were collected and analyzed from the questionnaire information.

The Wilcoxon t-test results (z = 1.16, p =.1) indicated that there was no difference in battered women's knowledge before and after educational sessions. Also, the educational sessions had no major impact on changing the intent to return to the batterer.