"I am not frustrated anymore". Family doctors' evaluation of a comprehensive training on partner abuse

Abstract

Objective: The aim of this study was to discover the ways in which a training program on intimate partner abuse affected a doctor's daily practice.

Methods: Eighteen family doctors who participated in a training program on partner abuse were interviewed.

Results: The interviewees evaluated the training program to be useful in raising their awareness and suspect criteria on partner abuse. Any questions and frustrations they had concerning the subject were resolved. They felt more confident and equipped to discuss and aid abused patients after the training.

Conclusion: In order to improve doctors' awareness of partner abuse in daily practice, they must need first realize the scale of the problem and then become more comfortable in their own attitude and finally more confident in their ability to aid these patients.

Practice implications: Training on partner abuse should be specifically tailored to change awareness, attitudes and consultation skills.