The role of religion, both as institution and in relation to clergy and the faithful, in intrafamilial abuse is examined. Discussions of spouse abuse, physical child abuse, elder abuse, incest, and marital rape cover such topics as victim and perpetrator profiles, etiology, identification, and reporting. A consideration of treatment options for victims and abusers examines crisis intervention, counseling approaches, and special treatment issues. The role of child protective services in treatment and legal remedies for spouse abuse also are discussed. The role of culture and ethnicity in family violence are reviewed, as are issues in the treatment of Jewish, Native American, and Quaker clients. Techniques for interviewing child victims are described, and issues in the pastoral counseling of adult survivors of child sexual abuse are discussed. Guidelines from religious leaders consider the role of the clergy and the congregation in helping families. A model training program for religious leaders also is described. Two studies of battered women elucidate the role of religious services in their lives. Research into denial among batterers and treatment needs of incest perpetrators is presented. A model treatment program, designed to work toward family unity while also assuring the safety of the victim is described. Finally, a victim's perspective on shelter services is offered. Chapter notes and references, index, and resource directory.