Characteristics of domestic crises encompass the relationship between disputants, conflict focus, and behaviors involved. The causes of domestic crises are discussed under the general topics of social conditions, economic circumstances, and the psychological characteristics of the persons involved. A chapter on the police role in crisis intervention considers reasons why the police are responsible for domestic crisis intervention, crisis intervention approaches, officer safety, and resolution of the problem. Crisis intervention techniques address prearrival procedures and postcontact strategies. Case-specific suggestions for police intervention cover husband-wife fights, spouse battery, child abuse and neglect, child custody, boyfriend-girlfriend fights, landlord-tenant fights, suicides in progress, simple assaults and batteries, juvenile problems, and wife rape. Arrest situations and charges focus on nonviolent interference with an officer, disorderly conduct and intoxication, disturbing the peace, trespassing, simple assaults and batteries, and restraining orders and peace bonds. Chapter footnotes.