CONTENTS

About This Course

Table of Contents

1. Introduction to the Issues
2. Understanding Alcohol Abuse
3. Understanding Violence Against Women
4. Alcohol and Domestic Violence
5. Alcohol, Sexual Assault, and Rape
6. Prevention and Early Intervention
7. Screening and Assessment
8. Diagnosis and Treatment
9. Legal and Ethical Issues

Supplements
Fact Sheets
Videos
Resources

Silence Hurts
Alcohol Abuse and Violence Against Women

Addressing Alcohol Abuse With Domestic Violence Clients

The previous modules illustrated the significant links between alcohol abuse and violence against women. Professionals who work in the field of substance abuse or in the field of violence against women (e.g., domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, rape) must understand the essential relationship between the two.

Screening for Alcohol Abuse

Alcohol abuse screening is an opportunity to discuss how alcohol abuse affects safety. It is a preliminary step that determines whether an alcohol problem exists. Screening for alcohol abuse involves honest discussion with the client about her alcohol use, and allows for observation of their behavior, and signs of use. When screening be sure to:¹⁰

• Ensure privacy. Children should not be present during the interview, as they may repeat what they hear.
• Communicate trust and respect. Assure victims that, except for safety concerns, anything discussed will be held in strict confidence.
• Observe behavior. Look for signs of alcohol use.
• Ask questions.
• Deal with denial. Denial is the most frequent response of women because they are often ashamed of their behavior and they may fear losing their children. Start by asking open-ended questions about their partner's use of alcohol, and then work into their use.