Which approach supports effective domestic violence screening?

• A. Be judgmental
• B. Include family members in the interview
• C. Be non-judgmental
• D. Rely on partner-provided information

Answer: (C)

The approach that supports effective domestic violence screening is maintaining a non-judgmental stance. When clinicians are non-judgmental, patients feel safer to disclose experiences of abuse, worry less about blame, and trust that their details will be handled confidentially. Creating a private, respectful, and neutral environment encourages honest conversations and makes it more likely that someone will reveal whether they’re experiencing violence.

In practice, this means asking direct, but non-accusatory, questions in a one-on-one setting, using language that normalizes the situation and emphasizes safety and support. Avoid involving family members in the interview, as this can threaten privacy and put the patient at greater risk. Relying on information from a partner is unreliable and potentially dangerous, especially in coercive relationships where the partner may control what is disclosed. A judgmental approach further shames or blames the patient, which can silence disclosure and deter them from seeking help.