Understanding the Perception of Stakeholders in Reducing Adolescent-to-Parent Violence/Aggression
Publication Date
4-2020
Document Type
Article
Abstract
Introduction: Adolescent-to-parent violence/aggression (APV/A) is an understudied yet increasingly common social problem for adolescents and families, particularly those involved in the juvenile justice system. The current study focused on improving interventions for this population by gathering qualitative data from stakeholders to inform treatment targets. Methods: Participants (N = 23) comprised of court professionals (n = 7), parents/guardians (n = 9), and their male adolescent children (n = 7) in the United States. Parent and adolescent participants were recruited through monthly court-mandated domestic violence education classes offered by the juvenile court. Parent/guardian participants were between the ages of 38 and 77 and consisted of four males and five females. Adolescents were between the ages of 14 and 17. Court professional participants consisted of judges, probation officers, and court psychologists. Semi-structured interviews were analyzed qualitatively using grounded theory. Results: Results indicated that, from the perspective of key stakeholders, an effective intervention to reduce APV/A likely involves a two-pronged approach: (1) address specific and theoretically modifiable emotional, behavioral, and psychological factors at the adolescent-level; and (2) induce change in the family system by addressing environmental barriers to seeking treatment and by creating positive family relationships. Conclusions: The present study aimed to gather the perspectives of court professionals, adolescents, and parents/guardians regarding the development of an effective intervention for APV/A-involved families. This study represents the first step toward the development of a feasible, acceptable, sustainable, and effective intervention for adolescents and their families who are involved in the juvenile justice system due to APV/A.
Publication Title
Journal of Adolescence
Volume
80
First Page
264
Last Page
274
DOI
10.1016/j.adolescence.2020.02.015
Publisher Policy
Pre-print, post-print
Open Access Status
Licensed
Recommended Citation
Shanholtz, C. E., O’Hara, K. L., Duchschere, J. E., Beck, C. J., & Lawrence, E. (2020). Understanding the Perception of Stakeholders in Reducing Adolescent-to-Parent Violence/Aggression. Journal of Adolescence, 80, 264–274. Scopus. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.adolescence.2020.02.015
