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Distinction for Nick Young in research on 'Strength to Change' programme

Distinction for Nick Young in research on 'Strength to Change' programme

Nick Young, who has been facilitating ignition's  Strength to Change intimate partner violence and abuse programme in Bracknell Forest council since its inception, has received his Masters degree in Criminology and Criminal Psychology from Portsmouth University.

Nick’s research focussed on interviews with men attending the Strength to Change one to one programme for intimate partner violence and abuseand concluded that the core approach of Motivational Interviewing was useful in building a therapeutic relationship with all types of domestic abuse perpetrator. Establishing a therapeutic relationship with offenders has been proven to be an important factor in the effectiveness of programme-based interventions where behaviour change is the primary goal.

Nick commented; “It was great to have the opportunity to focus my dissertation on the area that I am passionate about working in. The degree as a whole has considerably broadened my knowledge and hugely influenced my practice and I’m glad the hard work has paid off."

Dr Mark Farrall said: "Previous independent research on the programme has demonstrated its effectiveness in terms of facilitating change and helping men to lead more positive lives, greatly affecting the well-being not only of the men, but of women and children and the family as a whole. It's great that Nick is so committed to the work, and that this further research again demonstrates the importance of a challenging but empathic and therapeutically-informed style, rather than a judgemental or confrontational approach".