A common preconception is that AVP is designed for violent people such as prisoners and angry men.

AVP is so much more than that, it can change the lives of any one of us who may need help with connecting to others, expressing themselves, or who craves to understand themselves more. Many find it useful in their work such as social workers, teachers or priests. In fact it can be useful in all interpersonal interactions whether in the family, at work or the supermarket checkout.

The definition of violence is not restricted to physical abuse but includes many other forms such as verbal, emotional, neglect and sometimes even silence. Violence can be such a part of the fabric of our society that we don’t always recognise it.

AVP offers alternatives to violence such as:

• Building trust and self esteem
• Exploring methods of communication
• Developing cooperation
• Encouraging creative conflict resolution