Background: Domestic violence is a risk factor for a broad range of health problems, (physical, psychological, social, and family health). The current research aims to determine the effectiveness of Motivational Interview (MI) in reducing violence against women referred to courts, dispute resolution councils, and counseling centers in Ahwaz.

Methods: The studied population included all of couples referred to courts, dispute resolution councils, and counseling centers in Ahwaz during 2014-15, collected using available sampling method. The research plan was test-re-test with a control group. The sample included 20 married men who, as reported by their wives, had violent behavior with their wives. They were randomly assigned to experiment and control groups. The experiment group received 5 MI (120 minute) sessions while the control group received no treatment. Haj Yahya's Violence toward women questionnaire was given to both groups of women whose husbands were receiving intervention in pre- and 1-week post-treatment. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics including covariance analysis.

Findings: The findings of the current research showed that the MI reduced the physical violence (F= 6.33, P= .02) and psychological violence (F = 40, P = .00) against women. But no significant impact was found in sexual violence (F = 3.02, P = .10) and economic violence (F = .38, P = .54) against them.

Conclusion: Based on the results of the current research, the MI reduces psychological and physical violence against women. Performing other psychological interventions which decline other types of violence towards women are suggested.