Can Abusers be reformed? There are different types of intimate-partner abusers, experts say. A subtype often referred to in the field as the Intimate Partner Terrorist is the "worst of the worst," says David B. Wexler, executive director of the Relationship Training Institute in San Diego, a nonprofit organization that designs and runs domestic violence treatment programs.



The man is obsessed with power and control, terrorizes his partner, erodes her self- esteem, wields financial control and is jealous and possessive. This type of abuser is almost impossible to change, Dr. Wexler says.