Evaluation of the Impact of a Cognitive-Behavioral Intervention for Women in Domestic Violence Situations in Brazil

Domestic violence against women constitutes a serious public health problem, which requires effective interventions for its prevention and treatment. This study aimed to develop and evaluate an intervention protocol, based on cognitive-behavioral therapy, for women in situations of domestic violence. The sample was composed of 11 women that were victims of psychological, physical, and/or sexual violence perpetrated by their partners. Symptoms of anxiety, depression, stress and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and life satisfactions levels were evaluated before and after the 13 individual psychotherapy sessions. The intervention protocol consisted of psychoeducation techniques, cognitive restructuring, gradual exposure to traumatic memories, problem resolution and recurrence prevention. Results showed a significant reduction in depression, anxiety and stress symptoms. The life satisfaction levels also increased significantly after the intervention, however, PTSD symptoms remained stable. These results constitute initial evidence for the effectiveness of the intervention. In Brazil, there is a lack of evidence-based interventions for the treatment of this population, thus, this study contributes by presenting an evidence-based intervention that may be used to qualify the actions of the public mental health services.