How can a community, as well as an individual involved, identify the specific risks that may lead to intimate partner violence and therefore, ultimately prevent such violence from ever escalating? 

 

Research is demonstrating how escalating violence can be predicted. How we respond to this violence is a decision many of our community partners face each day, as they work with families to identify what may be contributing to the risk of danger to the individuals.

​

Jacquelyn C. Campbell, PhD, RN authored a classic study, published in 2003 in the American Journal of Public Health. It was a cross sectional study, comparing 2 groups at one point in time; it compared 220 cases of intimate partner homicide vs. a control group of 343 cases where there was prior Domestic Violence but no fatality. There was not a predictive significance but the study highlighted the tremendous differences between these two groups. 

 

Dr. Campbell further developed a 20 item assessment tool after conducting research on the homicides. In examining these cases after the murders took place, she identified several risk factors that have been associated with murders of both batterers and battered women. We cannot predict what will happen in every case, but we would like you to be aware of the danger of homicide in situations of physical and emotional battering, and for you to see how many of the risk factors may apply to you, your loved one, your patient, your employee, client, or neighbor. 

​

For 25 years, the Danger Assessment Instrument has been used by law enforcement, healthcare professionals, and domestic violence advocates. The training offered in several forms provides instructions on how to score and interpret the instrument. Learn more about the Danger Assessment Instrument >

​

Besides Dr. Campbell's Danger Assessment, there are many other different assessments and approaches to violence risk assessment. Learn more about those assessments >

​

To learn more about risk assessments and the Douglas County Task Force's efforts on Intimate Partner Violence that can affect our community, please contact us for a presentation to your agency or service group: Melanie@peaceathome.com

​

​