The program design and techniques presented have been successfully used by the authors in a local shelter for abused women. The book first describes the basic concepts that guide the work, focusing on the social response to battered women in conjunction with the feminist movement. This includes a discussion of the self-help movement and the development of the mutual-help, drop-in group model. The description of how to begin a battered women's group covers need assessment, sponsorship, the use of paraprofessionals and professionals, the use of formerly abused women as leaders, and other leadership issues. Organizing issues considered include safety and confidentiality, privacy, location, child care, fees, the 'drop-in' format, and groups in shelters. Instructions are provided for being a group leader. This includes guidance for structuring group activities and experiences, responding to special needs, and conducting five group exercises. The discussion of groups for special populations of abused women cover racial minorities, religious faiths, juveniles, disabled women, recovering alcoholics, and lesbians. 160-item bibliography.