Date of Award

Spring 5-3-1999

Document Type

Open Access Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Social Work (MSW)

Department

Social Work

First Advisor

Maria Dinis

Second Advisor

Glenda Dewberry-Rooney

Third Advisor

Greg King

Abstract

This exploratory study examined the perceptions about intimate relationships of 21 heterosexual men who had been court-ordered to domestic abuse groups at an urban social service agency. Within four separate focus groups, six open-ended questions were asked about intimacy, gender role beliefs, and perceptions of relating to partners, other adult males, and children. Findings indicated that the men with traditional outlooks (i.e. those w'ho had a strong belief in male headed households), expressed a more difficult time with intimate situations. Those men who held liberal views (i.e. that both men and women share both provider and care taking roles), tended to embrace intimate situations. Findings demonstrated that men who batter face similar struggles for intimacy with men who do not. implications for social work practice and policy are to implement intervention programs that help these men overcome obstacles of shame and stigma to find a healthier balance in their interpersonal relationships.

Identifier

SC 11.MSW.1999.Finke.SK

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