Crisis interveners are individuals who come into contact with victims of domestic violence, spouse abuse, child abuse and neglect, elder abuse, rape and sexual assault, the loss of a loved one, or any other type of crisis. Interveners include firefighters, police officers, social workers, child care workers, correctional personnel, probation and parole officers, clergy, emergency medical personnel, victim advocates, shelter care workers, and psychological counselors. The book presents theoretical, analytical, and practical knowledge on crisis intervention. A comprehensive approach is advocated that requires interveners to assess the nature of the crisis and the condition of the victim in order to determine an appropriate course of action. Effective communication skills and adequate training are essential in quality interaction between the intervener and the client/victim. Book chapters specifically discuss the historical development of crisis intervention, the changing police response to domestic violence, intervention with spouse abuse and child abuse, elder mistreatment, rape intervention, death notification, and suicide intervention. The final chapter examines stress and burnout factors in the provision of criminal justice and social services. References