A Phenomenological Study: Experiences of Men Residing in a Substance Abuse Recovery Program With a Domestic Violence Perpetration Intervention Cohort

The purpose of this qualitative phenomenological study was to explore the lived experiences of men in a substance use disorder (SUD) residential program simultaneously receiving domestic violence (DV) perpetration intervention and services that address adverse childhood experiences (ACEs). This study examined men’s ACEs, substance use, and DV perpetration. Urie Bronfenbrenner’s socioecological model and Rudolf Moos’ modification of socioecological model provided the foundational context and theoretical framework for the study. Although there are various reasons individuals use substances, one of the underlying causes is often unattended ACEs. Individuals with SUDs are also often the perpetrators of DV within their intimate relationships. Currently, violent perpetrators are often ordered to complete batterer intervention programs, but these programs have been ineffective in reducing DV. This research study provided a voice for the men in an SUD program who have experienced ACEs and DV perpetration. Data were collected from 12 men residing in a DV perpetration intervention program using semi-structured interviews. The implications of the results from the interviews indicated that ACEs was a predictor of future drug use and domestic violence perpetration. The results of this study could be valuable for batterer intervention programs, SUD counselors, court systems, and churches.