PI.17.13
Exploring the client-worker relationship in men’s behaviour change programs
June 2020
The project explored the perceptions of multiple stakeholders about how the client-worker relationship influences each man’s change in attitude and behaviour, as well as his engagement in men’s behaviour change programs (MBCPs).
The study involved 65 semi-structured, conversational style, in-depth interviews with MBCP participants, MBCP facilitators, supervisors of facilitators, and partners/ex-partners of participants.
The study was conducted in partnership with two MBCPs at three sites: the Men and Family Centre in Lismore and Tweed Heads, New South Wales; and Centacare in Southport, Queensland.
The study found that facilitators of MBCPs can build personalised client–worker relationships, using self-disclosure to forge an emotional bond and build trust with participants. These personalised client–worker relationships can create an environment conducive to behavioural and attitudinal change.
The study highlighted that there is a risk of collusion when facilitators have a strong emotional investment in participants and identified ways in which collusion can be prevented.
The study also found that maintaining personalised client–worker relationships can heighten the emotional load on facilitators, and that this can manifest in gendered ways.
Researchers
Project Lead
Dr Elizabeth Reimer, Southern Cross University
Practitioner expertise
Mr Luke Addinsall, Men and Family, Lismore and Tweed Heads (NSW)
Mr Steven Dowker, Southport (QLD)
Downloads
Presentations
Using the client-worker relationship to engage men who use violence
This webinar explores how a personalised-client worker relationship in men’s behaviour change programs can encourage men to engage and develop their willingness to change.
Drawing on the research. the panel of researchers and practitioners discuss:
• how personalised client-worker relationship in MBCPs can enhance engagement with men who use violence
• how client-worker relationships are impacted by COVID-19
• the emotional load often experienced by facilitators and supervisors and ways managers and organisations can provide support
• policy and system level changes needed to support practice change
• future directions for practice and service delivery in MBCPs
Presenters:
- Dr Elizabeth Reimer, Southern Cross University
- Phil Jones, Men and Family Centre
- Lizette Twisleton, No To Violence
- Dr Kate Seymour, Flinders University
Facilitated by Michele Robinson, ANROWS
Budget
$109,803
Funded by Commonwealth Department of Social Services.
find out more
Contact ANROWS
PO Box Q389, Queen Victoria Building NSW 1230
Email: [email protected]