It is clear that physical abuse is an integral component of some intimate relationships. This book addresses not the violence but our responses or lack of responses to that violation of personal integrity and the accompanying trauma. How partner violence is responded to, individually and collectively, may well determine whether the violence can be prevented or will cease once begun.

This text is intended to serve as a basic resource for the student, clinician and researcher. It provides a summary of how we have responded to such violence in the past and presents potential future directions for research and prevention efforts.

From the reviews:
"Loue provides a basis resource for students, clinicians, and researchers who work in areas related to intimate partner violence. Writing clearly and communicating effectively the points that she wishes to make, the author makes extensive use of direct quotes from case histories and draws on a broad range of empirical studies, including studies from other cultures. Condensed coverage of the various areas of interest makes the work a suitable quick reference. Well referenced and adequately indexed. Recommended for libraries that seek to provide extensive resources to departments for counseling, social work, and women's studies." (Choice, 38:9, 2001)