Provides probably the most comprehensive work available on the social, developmental, and pathological aspects of the abuser. -- Joan E. Crowley Psychology of Women Quarterly Donald G. Dutton discusses this emotionally charged subject using an objective, academic approach. The author clearly lays a foundation for understanding the perplexing issues that surround the situation of wife assault. It would make an excellent text for the student in criminal justice, social work, psychology, and related fields. Every professional who works with men and women who are in abusive relationships and anyone who wants a clearer understanding of this perplexing and troubling phenomenon in our society, will benefit by reading this book. -- Dorothy J. Pike, BookScapes This book is a must for every psychologist and other social scientist in the nature of violence. Advocates and social policy workers in the field should read this book, in fact, they ignore it at their peril. -- Ehor Byoanowsky, Criminology, Simon Fraser University

The Domestic Assault of Women relates social and criminal justice policy to empirically tested social psychological theory about the causes and effects of wife assault. Donald G. Dutton argues that only by understanding the psychology of both the aggressors and the victims of wife assault can we generate informed social and criminal justice policy. By linking the psychological factors that support assaultive habits to police arrest policy and subsequent treatment, Dutton shows how police/therapist intervention can interrupt assaultive behaviour and prevent recidivism.

This edition has been thoroughly revised to reflect current work in the field. More figures, including recently developed scales and data sets, have been added to increase its usefulness.