Promoting the use of evaluability assessments and formative evaluations in domestic violence intervention programs: A case study of Seattle's Domestic Violence Intervention Project (DVIP)

We conducted a formative evaluation and evaluability assessment of a novel approach to domestic violence (DV) intervention treatment in Seattle, Washington: The Domestic Violence Intervention Project (DVIP). The DVIP seeks to intervene on DV through court-ordered DV intervention treatment program paired with evidenced based practices in treatment and supervision. Using document reviews, de-identified case file reviews, focus groups with DVIP team members, and a data review we examined: (1) the extent to which the program theory aligns with the program implemented, (2) the likelihood the program will produce positive results as currently applied, and (3) the feasibility of outcome evaluations as currently designed. Findings suggest that the DVIP is ready for an outcome evaluation. We also discuss broader implications to the field of DV intervention treatment research.