| Due to the limited information available concerning the current state and practice of battered woman syndrome (BWS) evaluations, it is important to explore what methods and techniques practitioners use when conducting these evaluations. The purpose of the present study was to provide descriptive data regarding the practitioners who conduct BWS evaluations, the frequency with which these evaluations are performed, and the elements examiners believe to be important for inclusion in BWS reports. Practitioners, who included both forensic psychologists and psychiatrists, were also questioned about the frequency and type of psychological instruments used in BWS evaluations. Given that these practitioners often provide expert testimony on BWS, another goal of the study was to examine the practitioners' beliefs related to BWS. Previous research has demonstrated that misconceptions exist about domestic violence and battered women. Results suggested that despite their training, experience, or even their belief in the construct of BWS, practitioners were fairly knowledgeable about battering relationships. Findings also indicated that practitioners believed that psychological testing was important, but not important, in conducting BWS evaluations. The most common types of testing reported were objective personality and intellectual and cognitive. The MMPI-2 was cited with exceptionally high frequency. The results from this study can help inform and guide both entering as well as established practitioners about the choice of tests that are used in BWS evaluations. Limitations of the current study and future directions for future research are discussed. |
