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Where Do We Go From Here?

NCJ Number
156148
Journal
Ms. Volume: 5 Issue: 2 Dated: (September/October 1994) Pages: 56-63
Author(s)
A Jones
Date Published
1994
Length
10 pages
Annotation
This interview with Ann Jones, the author of several landmark books on violence against women, focuses on her suggestions for strategies to counter such violence.
Abstract
She proposes a strategy for preventing recidivism for men who act violently toward women. Mandatory treatment to change such men's values, world view, and behavior can work with some men, such that they do not repeat their violent behavior. Those who cannot or will not change should be restrained through lengthy periods of incarceration and protective orders that are aggressively monitored and enforced by the police. Further, women should not have to leave their homes to seek protection in shelters when they are victimized. The policy should be for the perpetrators to leave the home. This policy must be accompanied by a commitment by police, prosecutors, and judges to enforce restraining orders. All too often the violation of a restraining order holds no consequences for the violator. Overall, what is needed is a serious commitment by all institutions, including the schools and the criminal justice system, to ensure that women's right to live free from harm is protected.