Women at risk of family violence.

Presented here are the basic, core picture and pathognomonic features of spouse (or partner) violence, stripped of obscuring traditional, often male-dominated misinformation. Spouse abuse, like other forms of intentional injury or violence, should no longer be considered tolerable or "normal." It represents a form of psychopathology, corrupting the family emotional setting, provoking human anguish and even death. It often perpetuates itself into the next generation. Assault or murder by an abusive male or lover must be recognized as an all too common, preventable, public health issue. Health care and legal professionals, as well as the public at large, must be informed to recognize the features of this tragic family drama. State laws and welfare agencies have started to accommodate this problem, directing victims to appropriate counseling, support and protection. Reluctant or passive police, attorneys and judges may present considerable frustration to those trying to assist these families.