Reasons why these two approaches have remained relatively independent are discussed, and ways of linking the two perspectives are suggested. Interview data from 85 violent husbands are analyzed and interpreted in light of their implications for family violence and criminological approaches. The data confirm the existence of 3 patterns of male violence -- 'family only,' 'nonfamily only,' and 'generally' violent. The patterns are found to be associated with relatively clear and distinct lifestyles, social networks, and values, which seem to reinforce the violence pattern. The authors conclude that both the family violence and criminological perspectives can provide insight into the problem of understanding violent husbands. (Author abstract)