1 Introduction
Discussing what is known about homicides and suicides is only one way to understand the lethal nature of domestic violence. At this time there is little research measuring the impact of assaults and abuse in terms of permanent and health-shatter-ing injuries and illnesses. For every homicide victim of domestic violence, there are many victims struggling with major health problems who did not die when shot, stabbed, clubbed, burned, choked, beaten or thrown by their abusers. Thousands of these victims struggle with the health consequences of being trapped in abusive relationships without being identified by health care providers or provided with proper treatment (Hamberger, Saunders & Honey, 1992).
Domestic violence presents unique challenges to the health care system and requires specialized responses from health care providers. Before providers are able to effectively and efficiently respond to patients experiencing domestic violence they must first understand the nature and etiology of the problem as well as its impact on victims, children, and the community as a whole. This chapter provides the frame- work for that understanding by reviewing the definition and causes of domestic violence as well as specific issues related to victims, perpetrators, and children.
References
Hamberger, L. K., Saunders, D. G., & Hovey, M. (1992). Prevalence of domestic violence in community practice and rate of physician inquiry. Family Medicine, 24(4), 283-287.