The Afrocentrist view assumes that African-American families are a function of a unique culture and should be studied within the context of that culture. However, the counseling of victims of spouse abuse is unlikely to be effective if it is blind to race and to the cultural experiences that go with it. The three central issues related to wife beating are the nature and reasons for the violence, the factors that determine whether the woman obtains the help she needs, and the methods of changing the woman's situation to end the abuse. Economic difficulty appears to be a more important factor in triggering abuse for black families than for whites, because of the lower socioeconomic status of most blacks. Shortages of shelters in black communities may be a factor in whether black women seek help. In addition, leaving the relationship may be more difficult for black women than for other women. The most important research issue is the availability and adequacy of help for black women. 2 notes and 54 references.