Range Intervention Project (Men's Education Classes)
Battering has long been ignored or treated as a private matter. Times have changed and today battering is viewed as a serious social problem. In 1983, in response to requests from women who worked with Range Women's Advocates, the men's education classes were developed. Based on the curriculum developed by the Domestic Abuse Intervention Project of Duluth Minnesota, the class uses the most recent and proven educational designs available to form a tested approach to help men stop their battering.
Program Goals
The primary goal of the class is to stop battering, which is a system of behaviors used to establish and maintain powerand over another person. To accomplish this goal, the educators will hold the participant solely responsible for their behavior. Attitudes and beliefs that lead to battering will be discussed. Participants will define the tactics of control described on the Control Wheel, and then role-play alternative behaviors as they learn non-aggressive, non-controlling ways to deal with conflict as illustrated by the Equality Wheel.
Screening
Classes are open to men who have used battering within the context of an adult relationship. Most men are ordered into the program through criminal or civil court, but the program does accept voluntary participants. When indicated, chemical dependency evaluation and/or treatment should be completed prior to enrolling in the class.
Attendance
Attendance in class is closely monitored. Work related absences are allowed as long as they are called in to the office prior to class time and do not interfere with progress toward completion. Discretionary absences also must be called in prior to class. If a participant is absent more than is acceptable, their participation will be terminated. For court ordered participants, notice will be sent to the court and appropriate action taken. After a termination, a participant may be recommended to restart the class. In this instance, no credit will be given for classes attended or fees paid prior to the termination.
Program Cost
There is a fee for the class and materials. This is not covered by health insurance. If a participate is unable to pay these fees up front, he may make arrangements to pay on a per session basis.
Location
Classes meet weekly in the Hibbing and Virginia area. Intakes for new members are done each week one half hour immediately preceding the class. Prospective participants should call Range Women's Advocates at 218-254-3377 or 218-749-5054 to get specific information.
