Intimate Violence against Women

Every year, at least 1.8 million women in the United States are beaten by their intimate partners. And that is only the number reported physically abused. It does not include those who remain silent, or those for whom the abuse is psychological. In this concise work, a team of writers examines the emotional, physical, and sexual abuse of women, the risk factors for becoming a target, medical and psychological consequences, legal issues and effective treatments for recovery. The book dispels myths about intimate violence, including the notion that one can identify a potential perpetrator. The most current research, theory and advocacy on this topic are presented so the reader will have the knowledge to help herself or others who are being abused. Every year, at least 1.8 million women in the United States are beaten by their intimate partners. And that is only the number reported physically abused. It does not include those who remain silent, or those for whom the abuse is psychological. In this concise work, a team of writers examines the emotional, physical and sexual abuse of women. They explain the risk factors for becoming a target of intimate abuse, including the effects of class and culture on this type of violence. They look at the potential legal issues, and explore effective treatments for recovery. Equally important, they dispel many myths about intimate violence, including the notion that one can identify a potential perpetrator. Most crucially, Intimate Violence against Women offers current research, theory and advocacy on this topic, arming the reader to with the knowledge to help herself or others who are being abused. The book presents specific safety recommendations for victims, as well as recommendations for teen-agers regarding dating violence. Legal and advocacy resources are included as well.

Paula K. Lundberg-Love is the Ben R. Fisch Endowed Professor of Humanitarian Affairs, and Professor of Psychology, at the University of Texas. She is also a Licensed Professional Counselor at the Tyler Counseling and Assessment Center, where she has provided therapeutic services for child and adult victims of sexual assault and domestic violence for 20 years. Shelly Marmion is an Associate Professor of Psychology at the University of Texas. She has been a Senior Research Fellow, publishing articles and reports on vulnerable populations including the elderly, deaf and blind, and the visually impaired. She is an award-winning teacher including for graduate and undergraduate classes.