Citation

Payne D, Wermeling, L. J. Multicult. Gend. Minor. Stud. 2009; 3(1): online.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2009, Scientific Journals International)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

The criminalization of domestic violence refers to efforts to address domestic violence through the passage and enforcement of criminal and civil laws. This article reviews the social science, legal, and criminal justice literature regarding interventions used to stop domestic violence. Theoretical foundations, effectiveness of police interventions, and the use of protective orders are addressed. Further explored are prosecution and victim advocacy, court responses, batterers' intervention as a condition of probation, and coordinated community responses to domestic violence. Implications are given for social work practice, along with basic information for assisting clients who are victims of violence in their own homes.