Men’s Nonviolence Classes Information:

Program Overview:

These classes help men to examine their belief system and behaviors that support violence, expand definitions of violence and controlling behaviors, discuss the effects of violence on women, children and himself, and identify and practice non-controlling alternatives.

The goals of the men’s non-violence program at DLM are:

• Stopping his violence and abusive behavior
• Understanding the effect of his violence and controlling behavior
• Accepting responsibility for his behavior and taking specific steps to change
• Learning to be respectful of her by listening, expressing feelings in a non-abusive way, and supporting her right to make her own choices about her day-to-day activities and life.

The topics covered in the curriculum include:

• Nonviolence
• Non-threatening behavior
• Respect
• Support and trust
• Accountability and honesty
• Sexual respect
• Shared responsibility
• Economic partnership
• Responsible parenting
• Negotiation and fairness

The emphasis is on ending his violence and on learning different ways of communicating and solving problems without being controlling or using violence. The facilitators help the men stay focused on the goals and provide supportive confrontations, education, and insight.  

Groups consist of up to 10 participants plus 1-2 facilitators.

The program is 26 weeks. Participants attend one group/class per week.

Completion typically occurs when the participant has successfully attended all 26 groups/classes and has paid for their program fees in full.