DOMESTIC VIOLENCE, WHICH is defined as abuse between members of a married or dating couple, is a serious problem in the United States today. The U.S. surgeon general reports that attacks by male partners are the leading cause of injury to women ages fifteen to forty-four. Domestic violence is also widespread. Lenore Walker, a noted authority on domestic violence, estimates that half of all women are abused by their mate at some point in their life. In addition, research shows that one-third of all female murder victims are murdered by their partners. As serious as the problem is, addressing domestic violence is challenging. Societal beliefs about the rights and roles of men and women, the complex nature of a couple's relationship, and the rewards the abuser gains by abusing his or her partner lie at the heart of this challenge.

Who is at risk"