A Brief Motivational Intervention to Address Intimate Partner Violence Victimization: A Pilot Study

Purpose: Intimate partner violence (IPV) is public health crisis that often goes unrecognized. Victims often report ongoing long-term physical and mental health consequences; however, health-care responses to address IPV have not been maximized. The standard of care of screening and referring to community organizations is not enough to help victims. Method: This mixed-methods pilot study enhanced the screening and referral standard of care by offering a brief motivational intervention (BNI-V) to six patients in an obstetrics and gynecology clinic. Results: Preliminary results indicate improved engagement into care and improvements in quality of life, trauma symptoms, and self-efficacy. Participants expressed high satisfaction with the intervention and improved perception of self. Discussion: This study demonstrates a feasible way to build on the screening and referral practices typically found in the health-care system.