Working with the perpetrators – GP tells his story

Doctor who counsels abusive and violent men says change is possible, but only for some

This week, Australian Doctor rolls out its special report on domestic violence.

Written to coincide with the UN’s International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, the aim is to show the role doctors tackling an issue hidden by silence, stigma and shame.

In this article, Melbourne GP Dr Ronald Schweitzer discusses his work with violent and abusive men.

Can behaviour be changed, what techniques are used and what advice can Dr Schweitzer offer for other doctors in managing complex and ethically vexed situations?