A review of cross-cultural approaches for the study of family violence covers case studies, longitudinal comparisons, regional comparisons, intrasocietal comparisons, small-scale comparisons, and hologeistic or worldwide comparative studies. After describing the types of families considered in cross-cultural studies of family violence, the paper outlines the types of family violence associated with the various age levels of family members. The findings summarized pertain to cross-cultural sexual inequality, cultural patterning of violence, and social-organization theories of family violence. Remaining discussions focus on research relevant to the effect of social change on family violence and the role of cross-cultural studies in developing models and programs for the control and prevention of family violence. Preliminary analysis suggests that four factors are important in controlling and preventing family violence: sexual equality between spouses, monogamy and a low divorce rate, a social pattern of resolving disagreements peacefully, and outside help for persons threatened with family violence. 85 references.