Citation

Margolin G, Burman B. Clin. Psychol. Rev. 1993; 13(1): 59-73.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1993, Elsevier Publishing)

DOI

10.1016/0272-7358(93)90008-A

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

The article examines feminist, social-learning, and family therapy approaches to wife abuse. Explanations for abusive behavior as well as treatment strategies are related to whether one focuses on the societal norms that legitimize family violence and permit wife abuse, characteristics of the individual batterers, or the interpersonal relationships that serve as the context for the violence. Resulting interventions are either individually oriented and directed to batterers or victims, or else couple-focused and concerned with the family. The article reviews this theoretical controversy, summarizes information on explanatory factors for wife abuse, and describes both gender-specific and conjoint treatment options. Similarities and differences between the theoretical perspectives are explored, as well as ways in which each approach can inform and benefit the other. The goal is to heighten awareness of the problem of wife abuse, as distinct from other marital problems in terms of legal, medical, ethical, and treatment ramifications.