With its focus on the connection between health and mental health symptoms, this seminal, groundbreaking work continues to forge new directions in the field of domestic violence. Describing a condition that is the basis for the battered woman defence – cited in cases of psychically- and psychologically-abused women who have killed their abusers – it continues to be used as a defence to explain premeditated assault or murder. Completely updated, the fourth edition reflects the significant changes in the field since the book was last published, incorporating ACA Guidelines on Health Care and Domestic Violence and data from the Adverse Childhood Experiences Study. It examines new research regarding battered women in other countries and multicultural groups, and includes several new chapters addressing issues ranging from murder–suicide in domestic violence cases to proposed legislation and Congressional resolutions.

The fourth edition provides new findings worldwide that reinforce the cycle theory of violence. It reflects new research on traumatic responses, and addresses Trauma-Informed and Specific Psychotherapy, interventions with youth in juvenile detention centres, information from government task forces regarding children exposed to violence and juvenile justice, and new findings regarding the application of psychology to the legal system. Entirely new to the fourth edition is a section about reforming family court and divorce presumptions. This is crucial reading for nearly all health and mental health workers who may be called upon to ask clients about experiences of domestic violence and must respond knowledgably and effectively.

New to the fourth edition:

• Fully revised and updated.
• Incorporates ACA Guidelines on Health Care and Domestic Violence.
• Includes data from the Adverse Childhood Experiences Study.
• Addresses findings regarding battered women in other countries/multicultural groups.
• New chapter on murder/suicide in domestic violence cases.
• New chapter on trauma treatment for victims of IPV.
• New chapter on interventions in juvenile detention centres according to recent reforms.
• New chapter on human trafficking and sexual exploitation of children.
• New chapter on elder abuse.
• New chapter on false confessions of battered women.
• New chapter on Immigration and Violence Against Women Act.
• New chapter about proposed legislation and Congressional resolutions.

Key Features:

• Addresses myths and science of domestic violence.
• Examines the interaction of IPV and other family violence.
• Presents best-practice intervention strategies.
• Discusses application of psychology to the legal system.
• Covers preventative measures.