NCJ Number
165903
Date Published
1996
Length
42 pages
Annotation
This overview of domestic violence addresses its definition, prevalence, risk factors, dynamics, assessment, treatment, and prevention.
Abstract
In this chapter, "domestic violence" is defined as "violence between adults who are intimates, regardless of their marital status, living arrangements, or sexual orientations." In this chapter the term is used to refer to partner or spousal abuse or assault. Such violence includes minor aggressive acts of throwing, shoving, and slapping, as well as major aggressive acts of beatings, forced sex, threats with a deadly weapon, and homicide. A section on the prevalence of domestic violence examines the frequency of husband-to-wife violence, wife-to- husband violence, and couple violence. Also briefly considered are domestic violence in homosexual relationships, sexual assault and domestic violence, the association of child abuse with domestic violence, and family background and domestic violence. Following a review of risk factors for domestic violence, including substance abuse and depression, the chapter discusses the links between emotional and behavioral symptoms and disorders and domestic violence. The latter discussion addresses the emotional and behavioral symptoms and disorders manifested by assaulted partners, assaulting partners, and child witnesses. A review of the dynamics of domestic violence is followed by a discussion of the role of mental health professionals in countering domestic violence. An outline of the procedure for assessing an alleged case of domestic violence is followed by suggestions for the treatments of both the victim and the perpetrator of domestic violence. The chapter concludes with a discussion of community prevention and intervention by psychiatrists and other mental health professionals. A concluding legal commentary discusses issues related to victims, other family members, and offenders, as well as guidance for mental health professionals and practitioners. 88 references