The intake and exit interviews were established by the Texas Council on Family Violence and the Texas Department of Human Services during an 18-month period in 1984-85. The interviews sought information about the woman's background, the nature of the abuse, the response to the abuse, the shelter services, and the plans at discharge. Findings challenged the theory that battered women are subject to "learned helplessness" and therefore acquiesce in their abuse. Instead, battered women are helpseekers who persistently search for resources and support services. However, they often do not receive adequate aid. Results also suggest alternative interpretations of the process of victimization and indicate that different types of women and abusers need different types of services or treatment. Recommendations for addressing the current shortcomings of community services include shelter advocacy, shelter clearinghouses, and integrated interventions. Tables, figures, chapter notes, appended methodological information, index, and 161 references.