RESOLVing Violence

In this episode of the Resolving Violence podcast, host Shaylyn White continues her illuminating conversation with guest Christie Tetreault. This episode is the second part of a 2-part feature focusing on dark personalities and intimate partner violence (IPV). The conversation picks up where it left off, delving into the myths surrounding IPV and how they relate to dark personality traits. Christie starts by highlighting the various definitions of IPV adopted in research and teaching, emphasizing the importance of including psychological aggression and coercive acts in these definitions. The dialogue underscores that IPV is not unidirectional and challenges the common misconception that men are always the perpetrators and women the victims.

A clarification note from the guest:
"I think my answer [to the last question] wasn’t as clear as it could have been because I was trying to think of how to be specific without tipping off potential perpetrators from figuring out the protocols that are in place in Canada and elsewhere. For example, in Ireland, what front line workers do is they mark a person’s file in a specific way if partner abuse is expected. I asked if this was also done for men, and I was told no because “men are never victims,” which of course is not accurate. Canadian front line workers also have a protocol for female victims who go to doctors’ office or ERs when the front-line workers suspect they may be victims of abuse. If you wouldn’t believe a woman is just clumsy and got hurt by falling into a door when the injuries are not consistent with that story, then it is important to have the same suspicions if men or anyone regardless of gender identity comes to the ER with those same excuses that are inconsistent with their injuries or are repeatedly coming in. It’s important to remember people who identify as women underreport their abuse and people who identify as men underreport their abuse even more and are even less likely to ask for help. So, what I would say is that same protocol and mindset needs to be used for everyone regardless of gender identification and sexual orientation to try to end the bias that is happening in services around Canada and the world."

To learn more about dark personalities visit the following website: https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2021/1020/1254859-narcissist-psychopath-sadist-psychology/

To learn more about IPV visit the following website:
https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2020/0123/1110351-7-myths-about-domestic-violence/

About Our Guest: 

Dr. Christie Tetreault is a distinguished postdoctoral fellow specializing in forensic psychology, with extensive research expertise in resilience, susceptibility to extremism, and interpersonal violence. Outside the lab, Dr. Tetreault is a dedicated educator, bringing complex concepts to life through engaging classroom discussions and the use of fictional characters for illustrative purposes. 

To learn more about Resolve SK, head to research-groups.usask.ca/resolve/

In part one of a special two-part series, we explore the intricate world of dark personalities with our special guest, Christie Tetreault, a postdoctoral fellow in forensic psychology. Christie provides an enlightening discussion on the social construction of dark personalities and emphasizes the need for nuanced understanding and individualized interventions. She breaks down the traits associated with the dark triad and the dark tetrad, highlighting how these characteristics manifest and overlap yet do not necessarily meet the clinical threshold for personality disorders. She also underscores the importance of bridging the gap between researchers and practitioners to foster a more accurate and effective approach to intervention.

A significant portion of the conversation centers around the misconceptions perpetuated by popular culture, where characters like Hannibal Lecter and Norman Bates shape our understanding of psychopathy in misleading ways. Christie elaborates on how these portrayals are often based on real individuals, like Ed Gein, who was found not criminally responsible based on insanity rather than being diagnosed as a psychopath. These distortions lead to widespread misconceptions that contribute to issues in interventions and treatment programs. 

Throughout this special two-part series, Christie also delves into fascinating research findings, such as the link between sadistic tendencies and cyberbullying. She explains how individuals high in sadism derive pleasure from the suffering of others, making them more likely to engage in such harmful behaviors. Her exploration extends to the concept of "sleeper personalities," which are traits held in check by societal norms but can emerge aggressively in toxic situations like genocides and military massacres. 

To learn more about dark personalities, visit the following website: https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2021/1020/1254859-narcissist-psychopath-sadist-psychology/

To learn more about IPV, visit the following website:
https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2020/0123/1110351-7-myths-about-domestic-violence/

About Our Guest: 

Dr. Christie Tetreault is a distinguished postdoctoral fellow specializing in forensic psychology, with extensive research expertise in resilience, susceptibility to extremism, and interpersonal violence. A passionate investigator of dark personalities, Dr. Tetreault delves into the intricacies of the dark triad and tetrad, exploring traits such as Machiavellianism, narcissism, psychopathy, and sadism. Her work has significantly advanced our understanding of how trauma and neurological factors influence antisocial personality disorders and psychopathy. 

To learn more about Resolve SK, head to research-groups.usask.ca/resolve/

In this week’s episode of Resolving Violence, Shaylyn White welcomes guests Karen Wood and Jonathan Ballantyne to discuss the impactful "3 Videos Project." Born out of a profound need for conflict resolution resources among families in Canadian prairie communities, this project focuses on creating training videos featuring Indigenous men as a violence prevention resource. The origin story unfolds as Karen and Jonathan narrate a compelling timeline that includes collaborative efforts with various community partners, such as PAWS and RESOLVE, as well as the invaluable participation of elders and cultural healing practitioners from Peter Ballantyne Cree Nation. Their efforts were met with support from the Saskatchewan Health Research Foundation to address gender-based violence on the prairies.

As the discussion progresses, Jonathan and Karen delve into the nuanced process of creating these videos, highlighting the importance of cultural relevance and community ownership. Jonathan talks fondly about his unique spaghetti scenario, a humorous yet impactful way to illustrate conflict resolution and the everyday realities of relationships. Karen adds depth by explaining how the inclusion of elders’ stories and the careful adherence to OCAP (Ownership, Control, Access, and Possession) principles ensured the project's integrity and lasting impact. It becomes evident that this project was not just about creating videos but fostering a safe and productive environment for men to explore and resolve conflicts.

As the episode concludes, Karen and Jonathan reflect on the project’s broader implications and their hopes for its future use. They emphasize the importance of simplicity and comfort in healing processes, which are mirrored in the way these videos are intended to be used - as supportive, engaging tools rather than prescriptive lectures. With an earnest appeal for understanding oneself and the value of communication in relationships, they provide valuable insights for service providers working with at-risk populations. This episode encapsulates the dedication, strategy, and heartfelt effort that went into the 3 Videos Project, shedding light on practical steps to resolve violence and promote healing within communities.


About Our Guests:
Jonathan Ballantyne is a dedicated practitioner in conflict resolution with over two decades of experience working with families and individuals, specifically within the Peter Ballantyne Cree Nation. His passion for facilitating healing through culturally sensitive methods has driven numerous initiatives aimed at addressing interpersonal and intimate partner violence. Jonathan is renowned for his unique approach of incorporating everyday activities, such as cooking, to foster open dialogues and create safe spaces for men to share and grow. His expertise and commitment to this work were pivotal in the creation of the three-part training video project designed to prevent violence in Indigenous communities. His efforts have not only provided valuable resources but have also inspired transformative conversations around healthy relationships and self-awareness.

Karen Wood is a dedicated expert in the field of gender-based violence research and prevention, working as an integral part of the RESOLVE (Research and Education for Solutions to Violence and Abuse) network. Her focus lies in implementing community-driven projects aimed at addressing and mitigating violence, particularly within Indigenous communities. Through her collaborative approach, Karen has succe

To learn more about Resolve SK, head to research-groups.usask.ca/resolve/

In this thought-provoking episode of the Resolving Violence podcast, we welcome Amanda Gannon, a distinguished faculty member of Indigenous Health at the First Nations University of Canada. With an extensive background that spans sociology, psychology, addictions, crime law, and justice studies, Amanda provides a deep dive into her Master's research on youth-centered harm reduction in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan. Utilizing the innovative photo voice methodology, Amanda explores the nuanced and often underrepresented experiences of youth when it comes to harm and harm reduction practices. This episode sheds light on the complexities behind these terms and highlights the importance of a more inclusive and holistic approach to addressing youth harm.

Amanda's research identifies significant barriers such as the transitionary stage confusion between youth and adult services, miscommunication of available resources, and the stigma surrounding substance use and mental health. The discussion emphasizes the importance of basic needs as a foundation for harm reduction and shows how current systems often fall short by only addressing symptoms rather than root causes. Amanda argues that harm reduction isn't solely about substance use—it involves creating supportive environments that meet fundamental needs like food, shelter, safety, and love, which are crucial for the well-being of youth.

The episode concludes with actionable insights for service providers and community organizations. Amanda shares innovative solutions directly from the youth, such as bridging gaps in accessibility by bringing community organizations into schools for educational sessions. She also emphasizes the importance of listening to youth to better tailor services that meet their real needs. Join us as Amanda Gannon unpacks her research findings and advocates for a more compassionate, inclusive, and effective approach to resolving violence among youth. For more information on Amanda and her impactful work, or to learn more about Resolve Saskatchewan, check the show notes. Don't forget to share this valuable episode with colleagues and on social media to collectively work towards resolving violence.

About Our Guest:
Amanda Gannon is a dedicated academic and practitioner within the realm of Indigenous health, currently serving as a faculty member at the First Nations University of Canada. With a robust educational background obtained from the University of Saskatchewan, Amanda's expertise spans sociology, psychology, addictions, crime law, and justice studies, culminating in a Master of Science in Community and Population Health Sciences. Her professional journey includes impactful roles such as a crisis worker in Saskatoon, where she deepened her understanding of community collaboration and non-governmental organizational dynamics. Passionate about youth advocacy, Amanda's research interests focus on child and youth health, harm reduction, and holistic wellness, making her a pivotal figure in the realm of community health and youth support services.

To learn more about Resolve SK, head to research-groups.usask.ca/resolve/

This episode discusses themes related to intimate partner violence (IPV) and family violence, including detailed conversations about the legal processes and expert testimony in IPV court cases. Listener discretion is advised, as these topics can be triggering or distressing for some individuals.

In this insightful episode of Resolving Violence, we welcome back Crystal Giesbrecht, the director of research at the Provincial Association of Transition Houses and Services of Saskatchewan (PABSS), to dive deeper into her pioneering work on the expert witness project for intimate partner violence (IPV) cases in Saskatchewan. Crystal elaborates on the significance of expert witnesses in the courts and shares how the project, rooted in previous efforts to reduce justice barriers for survivors, has led to a comprehensive 15-hour training program for family law professionals. Funded by the Shockproofing Communities Fund for Women and Gender Equality Canada, this initiative aims to compile a roster of IPV expert witnesses to present evidence-based information essential for court decisions impacting the safety of survivors and their children.

Crystal discusses the skills required for professionals serving as expert witnesses, emphasizing the importance of articulating expertise and presenting evidence that is beneficial to both family and criminal courts. Highlighting the Saskatchewan professionals’ and PABSS member agencies’ expertise, she underscores the impact of frontline experience combined with current research evidence. Shaylyn White, another guest on the podcast, adds to the conversation by acknowledging the challenges experts face and the importance of leveraging a diverse array of professionals to provide specialized knowledge relevant to IPV cases.

Towards the end of the episode, Crystal emphasizes the need for increasing awareness about the availability and benefits of expert testimony in IPV cases. She also shares details about her ongoing efforts, including a recently conducted training pilot in September 2023 and plans for periodic future sessions to build a robust community of practice. Additionally, Crystal talks about her research documenting IPV survivors' experiences with the legal system in Saskatchewan, aiming to inform policy and improve practices for supporting victims. Legal professionals are encouraged to recognize the value of frontline expertise and consider collaboration with PATHS to enhance their approach in IPV-related court cases.

About Our Guest:
Crystal Giesbrecht is the Director of Research at the Provincial Association of Transition Houses and Services of Saskatchewan (PABSS) and a distinguished Ph.D. candidate specializing in intimate partner violence (IPV). Crystal brings a wealth of expertise to the Resolving Violence podcast, with a strong focus on transforming legal responses to gender-based violence through evidence-based research. She has been pivotal in spearheading an expert witness project aimed at reducing barriers to justice for IPV survivors, including the development of a comprehensive 15-hour training program for family law professionals. Her extensive frontline experience and in-depth research contribute valuable insights designed to improve the safety and well-being of survivors and their children within the judicial system. Crystal is also actively involved in documenting survivor experiences in Saskatchewan to drive meaningful policy change and enhance the support framework for victims of IPV.

To learn more about Resolve SK, head to research-groups.usask.ca/resolve/

This week’s episode of Resolving Violence, we are joined by Dr. Mark Olver, a professor and registered doctoral psychologist at the University of Saskatchewan. The discussion delves into the pivotal role of professionals working with violent or at-risk populations, emphasizing the importance of clinicians maintaining a professional yet empathetic stance. Dr. Olver underscores essential practices effective with correctional populations that include being firm but fair, demonstrating warmth and genuineness, and fostering a therapeutic alliance. He advises practitioners to stay aware of their emotional boundaries, manage countertransference, and uphold realistic expectations for progress.

A significant portion of the conversation focuses on individuals with high psychopathy scores and the importance of respecting their dignity while helping them achieve positive changes. Dr. Olver elaborates on the stigmatizing nature of the term "psychopath" and advocates for alternative, less pejorative terminology such as "people with high psychopathy" or "correctional clients." He also discusses the history and efficacy of various therapeutic approaches, highlighting the Clearwater program that showed promising results for high-intensity sexual violence reduction among participants, especially those who completed the program compared to non-completers.

The episode concludes with practical advice for service providers working with populations at risk of violence, reinforcing the need for tailored, individualized services. Dr. Olver discusses the foundational principles of effective correctional programs, developed in Canada, and implemented globally, known as risk, need, and responsivity (RNR). These principles emphasize tailoring treatment dosages to risk levels, prioritizing individual needs contributing to criminal behavior, and adjusting services based on client characteristics. The episode accentuates the transformation possibility in individuals with psychopathy through appropriate, empathetic, and dignified treatment approaches, contributing to reduced recidivism and safer communities.

About Our Guest:
Dr. Mark Olver is a respected professor and registered doctoral psychologist at the University of Saskatchewan, known for his extensive research in the fields of risk assessment, correctional treatment, and psychopathy. His academic work predominantly focuses on justice-involved youth, variations in human sexuality, and the evaluation of therapeutic change, making significant contributions to the understanding and management of violent and at-risk populations. Olver's commitment to improving correctional programs worldwide is demonstrated through his involvement in developing and promoting the Risk, Need, and Responsivity (RNR) principles, which have been instrumental in reducing reoffending rates globally. His expertise is frequently sought after in addressing complex issues related to recidivism, psychopathy, and therapeutic outcomes, making him a leading figure in the ongoing efforts to resolve violence and enhance public safety.

To learn more about Resolve SK, head to research-groups.usask.ca/resolve/

In this insightful episode of the Resolving Violence podcast, Arianna Gibson hosts Dr. Carissa Augustyn, an expert in clinical psychology with a focus on risk assessment, intimate partner violence, and sexual offending for an insightful conversation. Dr. Augustyn delves into her comprehensive review of empirically based dynamic risk and protective factors of sexual offending. This work, initially commissioned by the UK Ministry of Justice, aims to provide practitioners with key insights on risk and protective factors to enhance intervention and rehabilitation programs. Dr. Augustyn underscores the importance of understanding both dynamic and static factors, offering practical examples to clarify these complex concepts. 

Throughout the episode, Dr. Augustyn provides a thorough overview of the current state of research on risk factors. She identifies four critical domains: atypical sexuality, self-regulation problems, antisocial cognition, and relationship issues. Notably, the research reveals the increasing recognition of hostile masculinity and emotional regulation deficits as significant dynamic risk factors. Dr. Augustyn also emphasizes the emerging importance of understanding environmental and situational influences on offending behaviors, which could potentially provide new avenues for intervention and prevention strategies.

Dr. Augustyn's work also spotlights the relatively under-researched area of protective factors, highlighting the importance of prosocial influences and other environmental conditions that can aid in reducing offending behaviors. For practitioners, this episode offers valuable takeaways on efficiently targeting interconnected risk factors to maximize intervention outcomes. As always, if you found this episode helpful, please consider sharing it with colleagues and on social media to help spread valuable research and strategies for resolving violence.

About Our Guest: 

Dr. Carissa Augustyn is a highly regarded clinical psychologist who earned her doctorate from the University of Saskatchewan. With a robust research portfolio that spans risk assessment, intimate partner violence, and sexual offending, Dr. Augustyn has developed a keen focus on the prevention of child sexual abuse perpetration. She completed her predoctoral residency at the esteemed Center for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) and currently serves as a postdoctoral fellow at the Royal Ottawa's Institute of Mental Health Research. As a registered provisional psychologist in Alberta, Dr. Augustyn is dedicated to advancing the understanding and application of empirically based dynamic risk and protective factors in both academic and practical settings to mitigate sexual offending behaviors.

To learn more about Resolve SK, head to research-groups.usask.ca/resolve/

This week’s thought-provoking episode of the Resolving Violence podcast, Shaylyn White is joined by Dr. Caroline Tait, a medical anthropologist from the University of Calgary, to explore the systemic violence and healthcare inequities faced by indigenous communities. They discuss issues such as the high demand for kidney transplants among indigenous individuals in Saskatchewan, the psychological barriers of anticipating racism in healthcare, and the importance of cultural safety training for healthcare providers. Dr. Tait emphasizes the need to acknowledge historical trauma, particularly the intergenerational impact of residential schools, and advocates for systemic changes to build trust and combat racism within the healthcare system.

This episode brings attention to the crucial role of empathy and compassion in patient care, noting how small gestures can significantly influence trust and engagement. Dr. Tait highlights disturbing issues like coerced tubal ligation of indigenous women and stresses the importance of anti-racism efforts in healthcare institutions. The conversation touches on the systemic failures in providing holistic support, illustrated by the plight of a traumatized pregnant woman in the criminal justice and child welfare systems, and calls for more human-centered approaches in healthcare and social services.

The episode concludes with a call to action, encouraging listeners to educate themselves on the guests' work and to share the episode to contribute to resolving violence. Shaylyn White and Dr. Caroline Tait expresses hope that their dialogue and storytelling will inspire positive change, highlighting the significance of mixed-methodology research and public health approaches in preventing violence. Tune in to this eye-opening episode for deeper insights into the social determinants of health and their impact on indigenous well-being.

About Our Guest: 

Dr. Caroline Tait is a medical anthropologist at the University of Calgary specializing in indigenous health and social justice issues. Her impactful research predominantly focuses on the lived experiences of indigenous communities in Saskatchewan, drawing attention to critical social determinants of health and their far-reaching implications. Dr. Tait passionately advocates for cultural safety and anti-racism training within healthcare, emphasizing the importance of historical trauma acknowledgment and the empowerment of indigenous voices. Her work also encompasses significant areas such as inequities in dialysis treatment, organ donation, and the systemic challenges faced by young incarcerated individuals, ultimately striving to foster holistic and human-centered approaches to violence prevention.

To learn more about Resolve SK, head to research-groups.usask.ca/resolve/

In this episode of Resolving Violence, we welcome back Brandon Sparks, a senior lecturer in forensic psychology at Kingston University, returns to discuss technology-facilitated sexual violence. Sparks explains various forms of this abuse, such as coerced sexting, cyber flashing, nonconsensual dissemination of intimate images, and deep fake pornography. He emphasizes how the rapid evolution of technology adds layers of complexity to these crimes, making it imperative for both professionals and the public to understand and address them effectively.

The discussion also covers the legal landscape around these crimes, with Sparks comparing the advancements and gaps in legislation between the UK and Canada. He underscores the importance of clear laws to help victims seek justice and the significant overlap between victims and perpetrators of these crimes revealed by his research. This victim-perpetrator overlap highlights the complex nature of technology-facilitated sexual violence and calls for more extensive research and precise legal definitions.

Sparks concludes by offering practical advice for service providers, stressing the long-term impacts on victims and the importance of not minimizing their experiences. He notes the compounded harm caused when someone's digital privacy is violated, serving as a crucial reminder of the stakes involved. This episode is a must-listen for those wanting to understand the urgent need for strategies to combat technology-facilitated sexual violence.

About Our Guest: 

Brandon Sparks is a distinguished senior lecturer in forensic psychology at Kingston University, renowned for his research on healthy and unhealthy relationship behaviors with a keen focus on sexual violence. His work extensively explores the evolving landscape of technology-facilitated sexual violence, including coerced sexting, cyber flashing, and the nonconsensual dissemination of intimate images. Sparks is also recognized for his in-depth analysis of Incel culture and has published notable studies on the risk factors associated with image-based sexual abuse. Through his research and public speaking, Brandon aims to shed light on these pressing issues and contribute to the development of effective preventive measures and support systems.

To learn more about Resolve SK, head to research-groups.usask.ca/resolve/

In today's episode, we delve deep into the subject of parental blame with Dr. Jordan Cummings and Arianna Gibson, bringing light to the psychological and societal factors contributing to the blame placed on parents, particularly mothers, when children experience trauma, such as child sexual abuse. Dr. Cummings shares insights from years of research, discussing various studies and findings that explore how societal expectations and stereotypes affect judgments of parental responsibility.

The adverse effects of such biases are discussed, noting how the internalized shame and fear of blame might prevent parents from seeking help, thereby impacting the entire family’s ability to cope and recover. The lower expectations placed on fathers is highlighted and how these contribute to different levels of responsibility attributed to each parent. There is a need for a broader understanding of the challenges facing parents, which can often be skewed by societal expectations and professional biases.

The episode wrapped up with actionable advice for service providers, urging them to recognize their biases and maintain reasonable expectations for parents. Dr. Cummings advocated for a family-centric approach in service provision, which accounts for the broader familial context and systemic pressures that affect parenting. This conversation highlights the importance of rethinking societal norms and practices around parental blame, promoting a more compassionate and holistic view of family welfare.

To learn more about Resolve SK, head to research-groups.usask.ca/resolve/