Citation

Buttell FP. J. Soc. Serv. Res. 2000; 26(2): 37.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2000, Informa - Taylor and Francis Group)

DOI

10.1300/J079v26n02_02

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Despite intense research efforts, a theoretical framework for guiding intervention with batterers that is relevant for both African-American and Caucasian batterers has yet to be described and empirically verified. This study examines the moral reasoning level of 111 adult men, 66% African-American, court-ordered into treatment for domestic violence offenses. Results indicate that the entire sample of batterers was employing a level of moral reasoning significantly lower than adults in general, and subgroup comparisons revealed no significant differences between African-American participants and Caucasian participants on level of moral reasoning. Although this study was descriptive, such findings indicate that moral development may offer an integrative theoretical framework from which a culturally relevant approach to intervention with batterers may be developed.